Students from our branch campus in Guayaquil and the general public attended the first Conference on Education and Humanities; the aim of the conference was to discuss the role of education and philosophy in building a culture of peace. It was organized by the education undergraduate program and the Ataraxia and GIEDEC Research Groups.

Participants spoke about the impact of education in the construction of a fairer society, using conversation as the main activity to create a respectful environment. International researchers, university officials and professors attended the event.

 
Isidro Fierro Ulloa, Rector of the Universidad de Especialidades Espíritu Santo (UEES), stressed the role of education in the formation of a culture of legality. “We believe that culture and civic education are fundamental to become a better country,” said Fierro.

 
Janina Suarez Pinzón, research professor at Universidad de las Artes, addressed the topic of social integration through cultural expressions. “The activities of “batucadas” as a tool for youth integration which offer a peaceful and creative option for young people on the outskirts of Guayaquil are an example of policies, territories and peace,” said Suarez, demonstrating how art can be an effective means for social cohesion.

Pierina Vera, deputy manager of social projects and neighborhood integration of Social Action and Education (DASE), explained the social projects that are carried out in Guayaquil to promote peace. Such as, albergue ciudadano”, and “programa esperanza ciudadana”, and recreational activities and neighborhood integration workshops that seek to strengthen community ties and offer alternatives for social growth.

 
The event demonstrated the commitment of participants to continue working from education, culture and social projects in the construction of an environment in which peace is an achievable and sustainable objective.