On March 24, Kennesaw State peace and conflict studies students competed against international students in the second peace studies soccer match at the Owls Nest.
The soccer match, advised by Dr. Pranaya Rana, a part-time instructor of peace studies, and led by Canyon North, the elected class speaker, brought together 30 players and 40 observers to engage in a 40-minute, two-half match.
The peace studies team combined sections two and three of Rana’s Understand Peace and Conflict course. The international team was compromised of student volunteers of various majors from all over KSU.
Sponsored by the interdisciplinary studies department the school of conflict management, the intent of the match was to promote diversity at KSU. Last year, Rana pitted his class against the KSU Police Department as part of community building and peacebuilding, and he planned to meet the same goal going into the second game.
“My aim is to engage students in doing something that is directly relevant to understanding peace and conflict,” Rana said. “Playing soccer with the police was intended to send a positive message to other schools in the U.S. amidst some conflict regarding police brutality and some examples of use of excessive force in schools.”
On top of community and peacebuilding, Rana also aimed to set an example for inclusivity in the U.S.
“This year, we organized it to involve international students so that we could promote diversity and cultural understanding in KSU and provide a good example to other universities and the overall U.S. amidst the rising negative stereotypes about foreigners and immigrants,” Rana said.
North and the peace studies students were in charge of finding players, referees and managing operations while equipment was provided by students from participating classes. Julia Orr led the marketing effort by creating flyers and working with students to promote the event.
“It was great to be able to have a first-hand experience in negotiating with a big group of people and spreading positivity throughout the community, which is something we learn so much about in class,” said Caitlyn McGalliard, a peace studies student. “It’s been a lot of work, but the outcome has been so rewarding!”
The international team defeated the peace studies team 3-1 and mingled together at the conclusion of the game. Students looking to participate in the match next year can contact Rana at prana1@kennesaw.edu.
