The American University of Nigeria (AUN) is proud to announce that its Ubuntu4Peace team has been selected to participate in the prestigious Peacebuilding Challenge, organised by the Manara Centre for Peace and Dialogue in Abu Dhabi and managed by EdVenture Partners in the United States.
This was contained in a statement signed and made available to newsmen by Yusuf Mohammed, Senior Director, Public Affairs, American University of Nigeria.
Currently in Dubai, the Ubuntu4Peace team is representing both Nigeria and AUN on the global stage, showcasing its groundbreaking project, “The Common Ground Initiative.” This student-led effort has gained recognition for promoting peaceful coexistence, environmental sustainability, and community resilience in the Bole community of Yola South, Adamawa State.
The initiative tackles three pressing regional issues: farmers-herders clashes, water scarcity, and deforestation. Through mediation workshops conducted in schools and communities, the team has helped reduce conflict by fostering dialogue and cooperation between farmers and herders.
To address the growing challenge of water scarcity, the team implemented sustainable water solutions, including the installation and rehabilitation of boreholes. These efforts have ensured fair access to clean water and reduced tensions over limited water resources. A structured community taxation model was also introduced to support long-term sustainability.
In response to environmental degradation, the team led a community-driven tree-planting campaign across schools and residential areas. The goal is to mitigate rising temperatures, restore degraded land, and increase climate awareness among young people and residents.
Inspired by the Ubuntu philosophy of “I am because we are,” the initiative encourages youth leadership, collective responsibility, and local ownership of peacebuilding and environmental actions.
The Ubuntu4Peace team is made up of five student leaders with roles spanning research, public relations, budgeting, and community engagement. The team works under the supervision of faculty advisor Professor Peter Genger.
Isaac Utsewa, a final-year Information Systems student and team leader, said the project reflects the urgency of youth involvement in peace and development efforts.
“Our generation has a responsibility to shape a peaceful and sustainable future. Through Ubuntu4Peace, we are not just addressing conflicts but also tackling the environmental and resource challenges that fuel them. The Common Ground Initiative is a call for unity, action, resilience, and sustainability, proving that when schools and communities work together, peace is possible,” he said.
Also speaking, Bilkisu Alkali, a third-year Law student and team spokesperson, said the initiative provides a replicable model for other communities.
“Our aim is to create a blueprint for coexistence, environmental stewardship, and resource equity. This initiative aspires to empower schools and communities, cultivate peace, and build a sustainable future where people and nature thrive together,” she said.
Professor Genger called on government agencies, NGOS, and private sector actors to support the expansion of the initiative to other regions.
The Ubuntu4Peace team’s participation in the Peacebuilding Challenge marks a proud moment for AUN and highlights the capacity of young Nigerians to drive innovative solutions to some of the world’s most urgent challenges.