In January 2024, IPADES successfully held the second edition of the “Liberty and Peace Academy (ALYP),” a unique educational experience aimed at 35 rural Nicaraguan adolescents and young people who have migrated or sought refuge in Costa Rica. This edition focused on a playful, pedagogical approach, where learning took place through games, activities, and participatory methodologies, fostering reflection and empowerment in a creative and accessible way for participants.
Methodology and Educational Approach
Unlike its first edition, this academy did not include formal lectures but adopted a methodology centered on popular education and collective learning. Using IPADES’s “Culture of Peace Booklet,” participants engaged in interactive activities that allowed them to explore topics such as freedom, democracy, human rights, the role of the media, secular governance, and the importance of youth and citizen activism.
The playful activities were designed to help participants understand complex concepts in a relatable, engaging way. Through role-playing, team debates, and simulation exercises, participants learned to identify fake news, understand the functioning of government powers, and reflect on the role of youth in building democratic societies.
Psychosocial Support
Recognizing the migration and refugee experiences these young people face, the academy included the continuous support of a team of psychologists. These professionals provided group psychosocial care spaces where participants could express emotions, share experiences, and receive emotional support in a safe and supportive environment. This psychosocial support was essential for strengthening participants’ emotional well-being, helping them manage the stress and challenges of integrating into Costa Rica.
Transformative Impact
The second edition of ALYP provided an enriching experience for the 35 adolescent participants, who found a space to learn, express ideas, and build support networks with other youth facing similar experiences. The interactive and participatory dynamics allowed participants not only to gain knowledge but also to strengthen their self-esteem, critical thinking skills, and sense of community.
Many participants shared that the academy helped them better understand their rights as migrants and refugees and discover their potential as agents of change within their communities. Additionally, the psychosocial support was seen as an essential resource for managing the emotional challenges associated with migration and refuge.
Thanks and Future of ALYP
IPADES extends its deep gratitude to all individuals and institutions that contributed to the success of this edition of the Liberty and Peace Academy. Their support enabled an integral space of learning and well-being for Nicaraguan adolescents in Costa Rica.
With this second edition, IPADES reaffirms its commitment to human development, rights advocacy, and the cultivation of a culture of peace, adapting its methodologies to the needs of each group and promoting learning through collaboration and empathy. The Liberty and Peace Academy remains a key initiative for training young people committed to freedom, democracy, and the well-being of their communities.
