Each year on November 16, the world comes together to celebrate the International Day for Tolerance, a day that underscores the importance of embracing diversity and respecting one another. Tolerance- the appreciation and acceptance of cultures, expressions, and ways of life- defines our global society. It is the understanding that humanity’s diversity is a source of richness and resilience. In an era of increasing interconnectedness, where people from different backgrounds live and work side by side, fostering tolerance is essential to building peaceful and inclusive societies. More than passive acceptance, true tolerance involves active engagement and empathy. It asks us to listen, learn, and celebrate each person's unique qualities. By committing to these principles, IVECA and program participants strive to contribute to a world where differences become opportunities for growth rather than sources of division.
In alignment with this global mission, IVECA plays an important role in promoting tolerance through education. As a platform for intercultural understanding, IVECA is deeply committed not only to diversity as an educational enrichment but also to preparing students for a global society that increasingly values intercultural competencies such as compassion, self-awareness, mutual respect, and adaptability Through innovative programs, IVECA connects students worldwide, offering them opportunities to learn from one another’s perspectives and to appreciate the complexity and richness of diverse cultures.
For instance, a Korean student shared the social challenges within his own community and expressed a desire to understand his partner's concerns more fully, saying, “I want to know about the social problems of India more specifically.” This openness reflects a genuine curiosity and willingness to understand other cultures. An Indian student responded by highlighting the dual realities within India, stating, “The social problem we are facing right now is gender inequality. Also, the infrastructure of India is really good in some regions like Delhi, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Noida, etc., but other regions have really bad conditions.” These interactions foster empathy and broaden perspectives, allowing students to explore issues beyond their own experiences and cultivating a deep respect for different cultural contexts.
Another Korean participant reflected, “The only thing I am concerned about in my society is polarization in many parts of society. If I get a chance, I want to solve this problem. Further, I want to solve this problem in the world.” Such sentiments reflect a strong commitment to addressing global challenges collectively and cultivating a sense of global citizenship in young learners, reinforcing that tolerance is fundamental to taking action toward meaningful and lasting peace.
On this International Day for Tolerance, IVECA reaffirms its dedication to building a future where cultural understanding and empathy transcend borders. As we commemorate this day, let us all remember that tolerance is the bedrock of a peaceful and inclusive society. By embracing diversity and promoting mutual respect, we can work towards a world where every individual is valued, where differences are cherished, and where understanding paves the way to unity and peace.
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