Reducing Violence in Zimbabwean High Schools via Peer Mediation.

The article focuses on a research project that introduced and evaluated a peer mediation programme aimed at reducing violence in four Zimbabwean high schools in Harare over a 10-month period. Peer mediation, a student-led conflict resolution process, was implemented by training Form Three students to mediate conflicts such as bullying, fighting, gender-based violence, and gang violence, which are prevalent in Zimbabwean schools and reflect broader societal violence. The evaluation showed a 91% success rate in resolving 1,203 cases, a 75% reduction in violent incidents, and improvements in school climate, including reduced use of corporal punishment and better relationships among students and teachers. The study suggests that peer mediation can contribute positively to building a culture of peace in schools, though it recommends integrating it within a whole-school restorative approach and sustaining efforts to maintain long-term benefits.