The Art of Global Peacebuilding and Excellence in Education

'It is great to have the uber-accessible voice of Sir Keith Ajegbo’s introduction. This enriches the book and its total authenticity. […] The case studies are all fascinating and the storytelling style is wonderful, taking the reader along to reveal the impact of these brilliant interventions. […] The focus on the arts, senses and relationships including the importance of tone and greetings really comes through… the descriptions of the wide-ranging work on peacebuilding are vivid and strong. […] There are also clear reflections on the limitations both on teachers and the efficacy of certain work, especially in the area of environmental education and climate justice. The authors make it clear how paralysing a certain take on colonialism can be, and put their dilemmas and positionality on the line. […] Kotler and Westbrook are both such a positive force for good who clearly instil safety and confidence in the people they work with, with their attention, commitment – and hope. It is as Hamze Awade says (talking about Israel/Palestine), “There is no hope, so we have to create it.” The book is so timely and will generate huge interest among academics and practitioners alike.' - Carrie Supple, Educator, Peace Campaigner and founder and former CEO of NGO ‘Journeys to Justice’. She has over 45 years of experience in education and human rights work. 'Kotler and Westbrook write beautifully about the challenges of linking excellence in education with peacebuilding. They draw on personal experiences with various education development initiatives in the UK and across several African contexts. With a thoughtful analysis grounded in concepts of moral imagination, daily activism and everyday peacebuilding, highlighting the capacity of educators to promote peace and quality teaching in tandem through critical reflection and action in schools, the book is a refreshing read. It offers a balanced perspective on the systemic challenges but also agential possibilities for peace and excellence through teaching and learning in diverse contexts. ... Perhaps most importantly, the book demonstrates hope in the face of overwhelming challenges. All in all, it is a riveting read, and readers will appreciate the practical activities shared throughout the text that help to bring peacebuilding education to life.' - Kevin Kester, Associate Professor, Comparative International Education and Peace/Development Studies, Seoul National University, Korea.