1.       Course Objectives

The objectives of this course are to:

  1. Introduce students to the concepts of peace, conflict, and security.
  2. Analyze the root causes of conflicts and violence, particularly in Africa.
  3. Differentiate between various types of conflicts, including terrorism and insurgency.
  4. Explore effective strategies for peacebuilding and conflict management.
  5. Highlight the roles of international, regional, and local organizations in conflict resolution.
  6. Equip students with knowledge of alternative dispute resolution techniques and post-conflict recovery strategies.

2.       Overall Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course, students should be able to:

  1. Analyze the concepts of peace, conflict, and security.
  2. Identify major forms, types, and root causes of conflict and violence.
  3. Differentiate between conflict, insurgency, and terrorism.
  4. Propose effective peacebuilding and security strategies.
  5. Discuss the roles of international organizations, media, and traditional institutions in conflict resolution.
  6. Demonstrate understanding of alternative dispute resolution methods.
  7. Analyze case studies of notable conflicts and their resolution.

3.       Detailed Course Content

Module 1: Understanding Peace, Conflict, and Security

  • Concepts of peace, conflict, and security in a multi-ethnic society.
  • Types and theories of conflict:
    • Ethnic, religious, economic, and geopolitical conflicts.
    • Structural conflict theory, realist theory, frustration-aggression conflict theory.

Module 2: Root Causes of Conflict and Violence in Africa

Module 3: Peacebuilding and Conflict Management

  • Peace and human development.
  • Approaches to conflict management:
    • Religious, governmental, and community-based interventions.
  • Conflict dynamics assessment scales: constructive vs. destructive conflicts.

Module 4: Justice, Legal Frameworks, and ADR Mechanisms

  • Social justice and the Nigerian legal system.
  • Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods:
    • Dialogue, arbitration, negotiation, and collaboration.

Module 5: Roles of Key Actors in Conflict Resolution

  • International organizations:
    • The United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), ECOWAS, and their conflict resolution roles.
  • Media and traditional institutions in peacebuilding.

Module 6: Managing Post-Conflict Situations

  • Refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs): Challenges and solutions.
  • Role of NGOs in post-conflict recovery.
  • Rebuilding communities and fostering reconciliation.

11. Teaching/Learning Methods

  1. Lectures: In-depth discussions on core concepts and theories.
  2. Case Studies: Analysis of conflict scenarios and resolutions.
  3. Group Discussions: Collaborative exploration of peacebuilding strategies.
  4. Simulations and Role-Playing: Practice in ADR methods and mediation.

12. Modes of Assessment

  1. Class Participation and Assignments: 20%
  2. Mid-Semester Test: 20%
  3. Group Project: 30%
  4. Final Examination: 30%

13. Reading List/References

Core Texts:

  1. Ramsbotham, O., Woodhouse, T., & Miall, H. (2016). Contemporary Conflict Resolution: The Prevention, Management and Transformation of Deadly Conflicts (4th ed.). Polity Press.
  2. Lederach, J. P. (2014). The Moral Imagination: The Art and Soul of Building Peace. Oxford University Press.

Supplementary Texts:

  1. Galtung, J. (2013). Peace by Peaceful Means: Peace and Conflict, Development and Civilization. Sage Publications.
  2. Boutros-Ghali, B. (1995). An Agenda for Peace 1995. United Nations Publications.