International Day of Peace on 21 September is dedicated to promoting harmony and understanding among people worldwide.
Kirklees College has joined communities worldwide in celebrating the United Nations’ International Day of Peace, with Principal Palvinder Singh sharing a powerful message of kindness, unity and love.
Speaking to students and staff across all campuses, the Principal reminded the college community that in a world that can sometimes feel divided, angry and uncertain, we can find kindness, compassion and peace in us all – and that it must start with us.
The Principal went on to say: “Peace does not only exist in treaties, speeches or world events. It exists in corridors. In classrooms. In workshops.”
Drawing on the college values of Kindness, Unity and Excellence, Palvinder encouraged the college community to recognise how everyday actions can help create peace. He highlighted the impact of simple acts of compassion and urged students to make the most of their time at college, following the ABC principles: Attendance, Behaviour and Commitment. Above all, he mentioned that every student mattered.
Palvinder also stressed that “Peace begins in how we see each other, speak to each other, and treat each other,” urging the college community to “Be kind to yourself, be kind to one another and make the most of the opportunity in front of you.”
The broadcast also celebrated the contribution of staff and students and reinforced the college’s mission of Creating Opportunities and Changing Lives.
Rebecca Swallow, Head of Student Experience at Kirklees College, added: “International Day of Peace is a chance for the college community to reflect on the impact we can have every day, and as part of its ongoing commitment to creating peace and spreading kindness across the wider community, for the 2nd year, the college has launched the KC Campaigning for Kindness – Social Action Challenge.
“Building on the success of the previous year, which raised almost £100,000 in social value, the challenge encourages students and staff to take small, positive actions that make a difference. From fundraising, donations, and community projects, the campaign is designed to show how kindness can inspire unity and create lasting impact both inside and outside the college.”
The event closed with a request for everyone to recognise and consider the responsibility and power you have in creating a peaceful community.