Bridging Academia and Practice: The Synergy Between a Masters in Justice, Peace, and Cohesion and Shalom-SCCRR
Eastern Africa

Bridging Academia and Practice: The Synergy Between a Masters in Justice, Peace, and Cohesion and Shalom-SCCRR

By May 9, 2025 No Comments

By: Ms. Habiba Abdi Dika, MA Candidate,

My pursuit of a Master’s degree in Justice, Peace, and Cohesion at The Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA), provides a profound opportunity to engage deeply with the theoretical frameworks, analytical skills, peacebuilding techniques, and research methodologies required to address complex social conflicts. At the same time, working at Shalom Center for Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation (SCCRR) offers a rich, real-world context where these academic insights can be applied through well-structured methodologies to transformative peacebuilding initiatives. Shalom has a highly qualified team of men and women ranging from M.As to PhDs to Prof.  Shalom also takes in Interns who are pursuing their Master’s Degree to complement their academia with hands on experience in the organization, like myself. The connection between the two is complementary and essential, creating a dynamic interplay where educational theory informs practice, and practice deepens academic learning.

Shalom-SCCRR’s Ms. Habiba Dika, BA, (MA Candidate), engaging Turkana women leaders in Sarima, Marsabit County, on strengthening their participation in conflict transformation and peacebuilding processes.

In studying justice, peace, and cohesion, I gain a deep understanding of the root causes of conflict and the pathways to sustainable resolution. This aligns with Shalom-SCCRR’s mission which is “To work for a society free of physical violence and unjust social structures in Africa, while building peaceful and reconciled communities”. Academic exposure to theories applicable to conflict transformation, social justice, and social cohesion equips me with the relevant lens to analyze and respond to the complex conflict issues that Shalom encounters and intervenes to their transformation. The ability to identify and address structural inequalities, cultural biases, and cycles of violence is directly applicable to SCCRR’s work in fostering reconciliation and building peaceful communities. The advanced analytical, research, and leadership skills developed through the MA program are crucial to Shalom’s grassroots and institutional engagement efforts. This underscores the importance of the organization’s commitment to working with highly educated and skilled peace practitioners, led by Rev. Dr. Patrick Devine, the Founder and International Executive Chairman. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to fostering a society where peace, justice, and reconciliation prevail across Africa serve as a constant source of inspiration and motivation for the entire team.

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Ms. Habiba Dika guiding an interactive session with women leaders from Saku, Marsabit County, Northern Kenya, who were trained on peacebuilding techniques suitable for conflict transformation in their area.

My work at Shalom-SCCRR significantly enhances my academic journey by providing invaluable, hands-on experience in conflict-affected communities. Engaging directly with these communities offers a rare and unique opportunity to observe how theoretical concepts manifest in real-world contexts. These field experiences add a practical dimension to my studies, enriching classroom discussions, informing research projects, and contributing to my final thesis. I have had the privilege of working with grassroots communities in areas such as Loiyangalani, Marsabit Town, Baragoi, Kuresoi, and Likoni, where I gained insight into the complex dynamics of inter-ethnic conflicts. These interactions have allowed me to understand the challenges posed by weak state structures, systemic poverty, and structural violence. Additionally, I have come to recognize the significant role that poor educational infrastructure plays in exacerbating these issues, as well as the marginalization of women, who, by birth, find themselves at a distinct disadvantage within these societies.

Ms. Habiba Dika facilitating a feedback session with the Dagoretti urban informal settlements women’s group after discussions on actionable interventions to address inter-ethnic conflict in the community.

The organization’s research and data-driven approach to conflict resolution is particularly valuable, as it aligns with the academic emphasis on evidence-based practices, reinforcing the importance of tailoring interventions to specific community needs.

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Furthermore, the societal conflict-related challenges that inform Shalom-SCCRR interventions invoke critical thinking and innovation. For example, navigating the complexities of resource scarcity, ethnic divides, retrogressive cultural practices, systemic marginalization, and power imbalances in the communities we interact with helps sharpen my analytical skills while exposing gaps in existing conflict resolution models. These insights deepen my understanding and shape my academic contributions as I explore new ways to address these pressing issues in my research. The cultural competence, empathy, and communication skills developed through SCCRR’s grassroots community-based initiatives are equally transformative, preparing me to engage effectively with diverse populations and stakeholders in any professional setting.

Ms. Habiba Dika engaging key influential youth leaders from Mutuini urban informal settlements (slums) on their invaluable role in peacebuilding.

Shalom-SCCRR provides invaluable networking opportunities. Collaborating with experienced peace practitioners and academicians broadens my professional horizon and offers guidance for my academic and career development. These connections ensure that my learning is informed by diverse perspectives, strengthening both my theoretical grounding and practical expertise.

Ultimately, the synergy between my MA studies and my work at Shalom is a powerful testament to the interplay of theory and practice. Each informs and enhances the other, enabling me to contribute meaningfully to SCCRR’s mission while grounding my academic pursuits in the realities of conflict resolution and reconciliation. This dual engagement not only advances my personal and professional growth but also strengthens the broader field of peacebuilding, ensuring that efforts to create justice and peace are both informed and impactful.

Author: Ms. Habiba Abdi Dika, MA Candidate, Shalom-SCCRR Programs Assistant.

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