§ 323. Powers and duties. The institute shall have the following powers and duties: 1. To conduct research and undertake studies, particularly of an interdisciplinary or of a multi-disciplinary nature, into the causes of violence and other social conflicts, and peace and nonviolence theories, methods, techniques, programs and systems; 2. To develop programs to make research, education and training with respect to nonviolent conflict resolution more available and useful to persons in government, private enterprise, community groups and voluntary associations; 3. To conduct training, provide symposia and develop continuing education and research programs to promote skills in nonviolent conflict resolution; 4. To establish such divisions, programs, schools, and offices as the board deems appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article; 5. To enter into formal and informal relationships with other public or private institutions for purposes of fulfilling the goals of the institute not inconsistent with this article; 6. To establish a clearinghouse and develop and provide other programs and materials, including publications, handbooks, training manuals, and audio-visual materials, for disseminating information on the programs, studies, research, and training and educational opportunities, of the institute; 7. To enter into contracts; 8. To adopt, amend and alter by-laws, not inconsistent with the laws of the state of New York; 9. To charge and collect subscription and other participation costs and fees for its services, including publications, and courses of study; 10. The institute may sue and be sued, complain, and defend in any court of competent jurisdication; and 11. The institute may do any and all lawful acts and things necessary or desirable to carry out the objectives and purposes of this article.