Minister Highlights Education as Key to Conflict Resolution in Angola

Luanda: The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Téte António, emphasized the significance of education as a tool for conflict resolution and prevention during a meeting in Luanda with a delegation from the Consortium for International Management, Politics, and Development (CIMPAD). The meeting, led by CIMPAD's president Peggy Valentine, underscored Angola's commitment to achieving peace and reconciliation on the continent through educational initiatives. According to Angola Press News Agency, CIMPAD has played a role in promoting education as a means of conflict prevention. The delegation's visit to Angola is part of preparations for the 14th CIMPAD International Conference, set for June 2026 in Luanda. Peggy Valentine outlined CIMPAD's main areas of focus on the African continent and discussed the objectives of the upcoming conference, positioning Angola as a strategic hub for global dialogue on governance, public policy, and development. Peggy Valentine noted that the project, which has been active for 30 years, has engaged with several African countries to enhance tools for youth in technology and innovation. She expressed a desire to collaborate with Angola, learning from the country's experiences to implement programs that are relevant to the Angolan and broader African context. Harvey White, a professor and specialist in public management and community development, highlighted the historical ties between Angola and the United States. He expressed enthusiasm for the emerging partnership and the potential for enduring academic and institutional cooperation. The 14th CIMPAD International Conference aligns with the Higher Education, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation Program initiated by the President of the Republic, Joo Lourenço. This initiative aims to strengthen the academic ecosystem in Angola and foster innovation across Africa. The program will be executed in collaboration with entities such as ICCOUNCIL, CIMPAD, the African Union Diaspora Division, and the CIDO Directorate. CIMPAD is a non-partisan, non-prof it educational association dedicated to advancing knowledge in public administration, management, public policy, and sustainable development. Through its international and biennial conferences, including the upcoming event in Luanda in July 2026, the organization gathers participants from the public sector, academia, private companies, and NGOs to promote good governance, health, administration, and sustainable development practices. The organization's origins trace back to efforts against apartheid in South Africa, with initiatives launched in 1994 to build connections with US institutions. These efforts aimed to bolster local capacities and address the disparities caused by years of discrimination. CIMPAD continues to serve as a robust platform for collaboration, training, and institutional development across Africa.