Teaching Peace Across Faiths: Insights from Malawian Educator Steven Kungala

Seoul, South Korea — Mr. Steven Kungala, President of the Secondary School Head Teachers Association in Malawi, shared his reflections in the interview after participating in the 3rd Special Lecture on Revelation Open to All Nations, held from October 30 to November 2.

As one of the invited educational leaders who completed the Bible Experience Program (BEP), Kungala spoke about his journey of studying the Bible, exploring interfaith understanding, and promoting peace education in Malawi.

Mr. Steven Kungala speaking at the 3rd Special Lecture on Revelation Open to All Nations in Korea

“A rare opportunity to study the Book of Revelation.”

Q. You recently attended the Special Lecture on Revelation Open to All Nations in Korea. Could you share your overall impressions from the trip to Korea and reflections on the program?

“Although I am a Christian and a Catholic, I rarely read the Book of Revelation. It was only through enrolling in the BEP that I had the chance to read it fully. The lectures provided deep insights that I will take back home to share with others.”

Participants from diverse religions attending the 3rd Special Lecture on Revelation Open to All Nations

“Understanding each other starts with knowledge.”

Q. This special lecture was an exclusive event for leaders who have completed the BEP. What inspired you to join the BEP course, and as a Christian, what specific new understanding or inspiration has the course given you? 

“It is important to learn about others’ doctrines and beliefs, not to force differences, but to live harmoniously. When my family moved to a predominantly Muslim area, I attended mosque services, not fully understanding the prayers in Arabic, but I wanted to learn. That mindset of learning and understanding is key to living peacefully with others. Jesus’ life, the prophecies, even references to the ‘beast’ in the Quran, all are connected. Now, the concept of the New John in Revelation is something many Christians need to study and understand. The BEP gave me this chance.”

Mr. Steven Kungala attending the 3rd Special Lecture on Revelation Open to All Nations

“Learning as a student, teaching as an educator.”

Q. We also saw you taking the written test during the program. How did it feel to take an exam after so many years, and were you satisfied with your result? 

“We felt tense with the cameras on our papers, and although we scored lower than expected, the knowledge we gained was immense. If given another chance, I am confident we would score 100%.”

Mr. Steven Kungala, interviewed in Yeouido, Seoul

A visual lesson in the park at Goseong Peace Institute 

Q. You also attended the park tour at Goseong Peace Institute. The park was designed based on the prophecies of the Book of Revelation — what impression did these experences leave on you? Could you share any peace messagefrom the events ?

“The visit consolidated everything we learned. Seeing the visual representation of the teachings and the animated movie helped the lessons stick in our minds. It was inspiring and brought home the message of peace.” 

Peace education in Malawi: Beyond religion and culture

Q. In your opinion, how is peace education influencing students and schools in Malawi? Do you believe that collaboration with international peace organizations can bring positive change to Malawi’s education sector?

“Zambia and Malawi are like brothers. Projects like city cleaning and sanitary pad distribution bring communities together and open opportunities to share values of love and education. Peace clubs in our schools welcome not only Christian students, but also many Muslims. HWPL’s initiatives help unify people from different backgrounds, and we need to encourage these practices from a young age. Beginning with the young learners, we can cultivate a culture of peace and respect across communities.”

Sheikh Musa Saidi from Zambia and Steven Kungala at Yeouido Park, Seoul

Q. Finally, what kind of future generation do you hope to see in Malawi? Would you like to share a peace message for Malawian students, teachers, and youth around the world?

“As educators, we must incorporate messages of love and peace into our lessons, so that students from all backgrounds can live peacefully and harmoniously together. Despite differences in religion or social background, we are one people. That is the essence of peace.”

Bible Experience Program (BEP)

HWPL’s Inter Religious Peace Academy (IRPA) offers opportunities for learning and dialogue across different religions. In its follow-up program, education was provided for Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Islam. For Christianity, the Shincheonji Church conducted the BEP. The 3rd Special Lecture on Revelation Open to All Nations invited participants who had completed the BEP, linking the two programs.

Interview conducted by Amanda Kim
General Director of Public Relations Department, HWPL Global 08 Branch