Kannur: World March Coordinator Rafael de la Rubia stated that a strong demand for a culture of non-violence and global peace must rise from the people, and each individual should become a promoter and practitioner of peace. He was speaking at the reception held in Kannur for the third World March team dedicated to peace and nonviolence.

 

“An organization like the United Nations, established for peace, is now under the influence of powerful nations. In this context, it is essential for a strong demand for peace to emerge from the people,” he emphasized.

Expressing concern over the rising instances of physical, economic, religious, and moral violence, along with violence against women, he noted that violence is spreading in society like an epidemic. To confront this challenge, he called upon universities and students to become advocates of peace.

In the event, prizes for the painting and digital art competitions, covering first, second, and third places for LP, UP, High School, and Higher Secondary sections, were distributed by the World March team and Bishop Dr. Alex Vadakumthala. In addition to these awards, certificates were presented to all participants, encouraging them to spread the message of peace within society.

Various organizations and colleges that work towards global peace actively collaborated in this program.

Key supporting organizations included: World Without Wars and Violence, The Community for Human Development, Ekta Parishad, Mahatma Mandiram – Kannur, Kerala Sarvodaya Mandalam, Bahai Center – Kannur, People’s Movement for Peace, APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial Public Library, Jai Hind Sports Club, Convergence of Culture, Humanist Party International, and World Center for Humanist Studies.

Supporting colleges included: Nirmalagiri College – Koothuparamba, Madayi Co-operative Arts and Science College, Naher Arts and Science College – Kanhirode, Sir Syed College – Taliparamba, College of Commerce – Kannur, Sir Syed Institute of Technical Studies – Taliparamba, Jamia Hamdard University – Kannur Campus, S.N. College – Kannur, Sree Narayana College of Advanced Studies – Thottada, KNM Govt. Women’s College, and Nalanda College – Eachur.

The event was inaugurated by Kannur Bishop Dr. Alex Vadakumthala, with KP Ravindran presiding. Speeches were delivered by PK Premarajan, TP R Nath, Adv. Meyyappan, and Tulasi. The welcome address was given by Mathathil Pradeepan, and the vote of thanks by P. Satheesh.