Duration: Six Months
Language medium: English
Target group:
The students will mainly fall into the following three categories:
Civil servants and bureaucrats, who are preparing for a career in public service delivery. They may be employed and/or previously trained in the fields (including but not limited to) of governance, diplomacy, socio-economic development, trade and industry, security forces, technological experts, ecological management and law enforcement.
Leaders in civil society, especially but not limited to community leaders, who seek to advance their knowledge of peacebuilding and conflict resolution at the community level.
Peace activists, who as citizens of Africa, are seeking to advance their knowledge on peace and conflict transformation.
Admission requirements:
A three-year degree or diploma in any discipline (NQF Level 7); or
at least 5-years' experience in the public service, in civil society or as community leaders.
Registration periods:
Semester Registration Periods
Course leader details:
Prof. Rirhandu. Mageza-Barthel
Professor for Peace and Development Studies
Doktorin der Philosophie (Political Studies), Magistra Artium (Political Studies), BA (Political Studies)
Thabo Mbeki African School of Public and International Affairs
Tel: 012 352 4029
Email: magezr@unisa.ac.za
Programme administrator:
Ms Sonja Geyer
Administrator
Thabo Mbeki African School of Public and International Affairs
Office no. 03 - 009
Robert Sobukwe Building
012 337 6013
geyersd@unisa.ac.za
Purpose statement:
The SLP The Dynamics of Peace and Conflict in Africa introduces students to the fundamental theoretical concepts and practice relating to peacebuilding and conflict transformation in various African contexts, including South Africa. Our specific aim is to prepare students for a career as peace and conflict practitioners who can contribute to the efficacy in public service towards a peaceful society. This may be in the public service, in civil society, in academia and/or as community leaders. To this end the qualifying student will engage with:
The fundamental concepts and theoretical perspectives, cultural variables and social values applicable to peace and conflict studies.
Skills applicable to peace and conflict transformation with an emphasis on data gathering, critical analysis, complementary reflection and decision-making.
The design and management of peace and conflict transformation in terms of policies, strategies and/or project plans applicable to policy and practice in a specific African context.
Modules:
APDPCA1 - Conflict Dynamics and Concepts in Africa
Content:
Philosophical and theoretical approaches to peace and conflict studies from different epistemological perspectives.
The legal and policy frameworks of the UN and AU conventions on peace and conflict resolution.
The costs of violent conflict - its drivers, dynamics and human/development repercussions.
Knowledge of peace and security in a democratic society.
APDPCA2 - Gender Relations during Peace and Conflict
Content:
The diverse roles of gender-specific violence and women in violent conflict - as leaders, participants and survivors
Different forms of physical and structural violence affecting women: A focus on gender-based violence and femicide
An overview of the significant participation of women in peace processes (peace-making, peacekeeping, peacebuilding)
Strategies and prevention of gender-based violence
APDPCA3 - Community Dispute Resolution for Peace and Conflict Resolution in Africa
Content:
Community Conflict
Community dispute resolution
Peace project implementation
ITLR24C - Decision-making and Conflict Management in an African Context
Content:
Decision-making approaches/models/processes for Africa's renewal
Indigenous conflict and dispute resolution mechanisms
Peace building for organisational and social development