by Onur BARAN, Youth Speaker | Youth Section
Compulsory Peace & ICT Education Campaign in Support of the International Day of Democracy
Organized and presented virtually by Light Millennium Global along with the Coalition on September 13, 2025. #CompulsoryPeaceICTEducation | #DemocracyDay
Background / Concept / Expected Outcomes | Bio of the Speakers & Profiles of the Participating Orgs.

Introduction:

[LMGlobal.Org] Onur Baran, a high school student, advocates for the universal implementation of Peace and ICT Education from kindergarten onward. He emphasizes that while technology offers immense potential for connection and societal advancement, it must be balanced with ethical education. Baran argues that this holistic approach—combining digital literacy with empathy and critical thinking—is essential to preparing a new generation to use technology for social good, fight misinformation, and strengthen democracy in an increasingly interconnected world. He stresses that this investment will foster a more just and equitable global community.

Good morning, distinguished guests, fellow speakers, and global citizens.

My name is Onur Baran, and I’m a junior at High Technology High School in New Jersey and a New York Ataturk School alumnus. It’s an honor to join you today as part of this inspiring initiative to champion compulsory Peace and ICT Education, especially as we approach the International Day of Democracy.

As a student at a STEM-focused high school, I witness every day the power of technology to connect people, expand minds, and transform societies. Yet, I also see the challenges that come when technology outpaces our collective ability to use it wisely and ethically. In my work with the Teen Think Tank Project’s Social Action Lab, I research issues like housing justice and economic equality—topics that reveal how access to technology and education can shape a person’s entire future.

But education is not only about mastering devices or coding languages. It’s about learning to think critically, to empathize, and to collaborate across differences. It’s about understanding the impact of our actions, both online and offline, and taking responsibility for the world we are helping to create.

That’s why the vision behind this campaign resonates so deeply with me. When we make Peace and ICT Education a universal right—starting in kindergarten and continuing through every stage of life—we are investing in a future where every person, regardless of background or ability, has the opportunity to thrive in a connected world.

Imagine a generation of young people who not only understand how to use technology, but who also know how to use it for good—to bridge divides, to fight misinformation, to advocate for justice, and to build inclusive communities. Imagine classrooms where empathy and digital literacy are valued as highly as math and science. Imagine a world where democracy is strengthened because every citizen is equipped to participate meaningfully, both online and in person.

As a chorister, I know that harmony is not created by a single voice, but by many voices coming together, listening and responding to each other. The same is true for peace and democracy. They require all of us—students, educators, policymakers, and citizens—to learn together, to listen, and to act with empathy and purpose.

The challenges we face—inequality, discrimination, the rapid advancement of AI—are complex and global. But so too is our potential for progress, if we choose to invest in education that is holistic, inclusive, and forward-thinking.

Let’s work together to make peace and ICT education not just an ideal, but a reality for every child, everywhere. By doing so, we’re not only honoring the values at the heart of the United Nations and the International Day of Democracy—we’re building the foundation for a more just, equitable, and connected world for generations to come.

Thank you.