A training of trainers workshop was held in Bamako, Mali, from 3 to 7 March 2025, under the theme: “Creating Safe, Favorable, and Resilient Learning Environments to Protect Children’s Right to Education in Times of Conflict and Crisis.” The workshop brought together 28 educators, teacher trainers, and school leaders from across the country to strengthen their ability to foster safe, inclusive, and supportive classrooms—even amid conflict and crisis.
Facilitated by Ms. Eleonora Mura, Senior Expert on Ethics Education at Arigatou International – Geneva, the workshop is part of a broader regional initiative led by UNESCO-IICBA, UNESCO Mali, and the Ministry of Education of Mali, with support from the Government of Japan. The initiative is also being implemented in Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, South Sudan, Chad, and Niger.
Throughout the five-day training, participants engaged deeply with transformative pedagogy approaches that integrate peacebuilding, gender-responsive practices, and mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). The workshop emphasized learner-centered strategies aimed at safeguarding children’s well-being and promoting resilience in their educational journeys. “I find the transformative pedagogy approach very relevant to mobilize the knowledge and competencies of learners and to co-develop learning opportunities in the classroom,” shared one participant, reflecting the collective enthusiasm for practical tools that respond to students’ needs.
Participants also recognized transformative pedagogy as a powerful tool to improve communication and build learners’ confidence.“One thing I learned during this workshop is that transformative pedagogy can be used by teachers to boost students’ confidence,” said one educator. Another added, “This workshop helped me understand how improving communication with learners is key—not just for solving problems, but also for fostering honest dialogue and meaningful exchanges in the classroom.”
Participants explored concrete strategies for creating safe school environments and for training others in their communities. This effort lays the groundwork for a national network of empowered educators who can expand the reach and impact of this training across Mali.
A particularly moving moment came when one participant shared: “Particularly as we live in a situation of war that has been imposed on us, we can use what we learned in this workshop to bring peace to our schools.”
As Mali continues to face immense challenges, this initiative stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of its educators and their unwavering commitment to children’s right to education. The workshop represents an important step toward peace, empowerment, and educational transformation in the region.
Arigatou International – Geneva is honored to contribute to this initiative. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our partners for recognizing the impact of our pedagogical approach and for entrusting our team to lead this Training of Trainers workshop.
