Cambodian Seminar Invites Youth to Embody Peace Culture
Updated: Sep 23
Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Beltei International University in Phnom Penh served as the host and the venue for a seminar on "Character Education and International Day of Peace" on September 21, 2026, organized by UPF-Cambodia and the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP).
The event brought together over 600 distinguished guests, educators, youth representatives and peace advocates to commemorate the International Day of Peace. The seminar emphasized that true and sustainable peace originates from inner moral character and is nurtured through family harmony, civic responsibility and ethical leadership. The event concluded with a unified call for Cambodian youth to become active peacebuilders and drivers of a peaceful future.
Mr. Sophal Chamroeun, regional director of UPF-Indochina, delivered a warm welcome address. He emphasized that the International Day of Peace is a moment to reflect on peace as a lived daily reality, not just an abstract idea. He stated, "True peace does not begin in international treaties or political agreements alone. It begins within the hearts and minds of individuals, particularly our young people." He underscored that character education is the anchor that guides young leaders to apply their knowledge with compassion, integrity, responsibility and empathy.
Mr. Santosh Paudel, vice president of UPF-Asia Pacific, offered broad regional perspectives on the importance of nurturing moral leadership and strong character in youth to build resilient communities across the Asia Pacific region.
Next Dr. Chhort Bunthang, researcher at the Royal Academy of Cambodia and a UPF ambassador for peace, delivered a presentation on "Character Education and How to Become an Ideal Youth." He said that peace is an inner foundation rooted in moral civic responsibility, and that true peace starts inside human hearts before manifesting in families, communities and global governance.
He suggested that young people need to adopt three life goals:
Develop individual character, attaining self-mastery, truthfulness and emotional maturity
Build loving relationships, leading to strong families and harmonious social bonds
Embody responsible stewardship, using knowledge and skills to elevate the nation and the natural environment.
He highlighted the family as the primary school of love and peace, where individuals learn empathy, filial piety, mutual care and the art of peaceful coexistence, and encouraged Cambodian youth to develop four core virtues: integrity, compassion, self-discipline and service.
He addressed modern challenges including self-centeredness, cynicism and materialism, saying these attitudes can be countered by constructive engagement and value-centered living for the sake of others. He pointed out that the youth are drivers of Cambodia's future, and encouraged them to transform their national heritage into a global model of peace and reconciliation.
Mr. San Chenda, president of YSP-Cambodia, introduced the Youth Development Program. He outlined initiatives and opportunities available to young people, encouraging participants to actively join programs that foster leadership skills, volunteerism and community service.
Finally, H.E. Ly Navuth, president of Beltei International University, delivered the closing remarks. He expressed his deep gratitude to UPF for organizing this meaningful event. He summarized the key takeaways, emphasizing that youth are not merely leaders of tomorrow but peacebuilders of today. He encouraged all participants to embody the values of peace and strong character in their daily lives.
The seminar achieved its objectives of raising awareness, inspiring youth and fostering a culture of peace. The collaboration between UPF, YSP-Cambodia, and Beltei International University demonstrated the power of partnership in advancing peace education. The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all participants to engage in serving others and build a harmonious future for Cambodia and the world.
