Phnom Penh - Cambodia - UPF-Cambodia observed the International Day of Peace, with the cooperation of the Cambodia Japan Support Committee, on September 29 at the Pannasastra International School in the capital, Phnom Penh. Under the theme “Education for Peace,” 120 high school and university students heard presentations about universal moral values.
After the singing of Cambodia’s national anthem, master of ceremonies Chamroeun Sophal introduced the main guest, Ambassador for Peace Chay Chap, the former secretary of education, youth and sports, as well as six other Ambassadors for Peace who are leaders of NGOs. Students were introduced by school: the Royal University of Phnom Penh, Royal University of Law and Economy, National University of Management, International University, Asia and Euro University, Kossomak Polytechnic University, Vanda Institute, and Pannasastra International School.
Masumi F. Schmittat, the secretary-general of UPF-Cambodia, read the International Day of Peace message from the UN Secretary-General. This was followed by a one-minute silent prayer.
Chay Chap gave the opening speech, in which he stressed the importance of pursuing the mind’s happiness as well as the body’s happiness. He used examples of the real-life tragedy of HIV patients.
A demonstration of Tong-il Moo-do “peace breathing” by two Pannasastra International School students created a solemn atmosphere.
Mrs. Schmittat, giving the first lecture on Universal Moral Values, stated that the pillar of sustainable peace is living for others and the beam of it is maintaining the sacredness of marriage.
Sok Seng Yan, senior advisor to UPF-Cambodia, explained through his lecture how important it is for young people to keep their purity, not only for avoiding AIDS and other diseases but also for the sake of developing their personality.
At the end, Chay Chap summarized the lectures and encouraged the young guests to become healthy peacemakers. The program finished with the taking of a group photo.
Reported by Masumi F. Schmittat