On 27–28 October 2026, Ilia State University hosted the international conference “Reimagining Peace: Education, Dialogue, and Sustainable Futures.”

The conference brought together researchers, academics, education professionals, and civil society organisations from Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova, other European countries, and the United States. Its aim was to explore the significance of peace education, share international experiences, and examine the role of education in peacebuilding and shaping a sustainable future.

The conference programme featured presentations by international experts and researchers, thematic parallel sessions, practical workshops, poster presentations, and discussions.

Participants explored a range of topics, including the integration of peace education into curricula, the role of education in conflict transformation, fostering peaceful coexistence in post-conflict and diverse societies, youth engagement, and the role of universities in promoting a culture of peace.

The plenary session featured presentations by Marco Lehti (Tampere Peace Research Institute, Finland), Susan Allen (George Mason University, USA), and Giorgi Gvalia (Ilia State University).

At the closing session, Frans Kruger (University of Nottingham, United Kingdom) delivered a presentation on the potential of peace education in fostering knowledge, a sense of belonging, and responsibility.

The conference provided an important international platform for sharing academic and professional expertise, establishing new connections, and strengthening cooperation in the field of peace education.

We extend our sincere thanks to all participants, speakers, and partners for their valuable contributions!

Peace begins with education, dialogue, and listening to one another.

The conference was held within the framework of the European Union co-funded project “Curriculum Reform to Promote Education for Peace in Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova” (PEACEEDU).