A unique initiative in Ecuador’s Amazon is empowering the Kichwa community through education focused on cultural traditions and sustainability. Led by teacher Lucia Chavez, the program includes workshops and engaging activities aimed at fostering ecological awareness and respect for heritage. The effort not only aims to enhance food resilience but also to nurture children’s voices and confidence, promoting environmental stewardship within the framework of UNESCO’s sustainable development goals.
In Ecuador’s Amazon, an innovative initiative is cultivating sustainable living by reconnecting children and their community with indigenous Kichwa traditions. Located in the village of Dahuano, near the UNESCO-designated Sumaco-Napo Galeras Park, this experiential learning space encourages appreciation for nature, cultural heritage, and sustainable practices among the Kichwa people.
The program incorporates weekly workshops and reading clubs aimed at both children and the wider community to enhance their understanding of sustainability topics such as climate change, food resilience, and local ingredients. These interactive sessions help children rediscover their food heritage through engaging activities, including local food tasting, reinforcing their connection to cultural and environmental stewardship.
Lucia Chavez, a dedicated educator, joined this initiative four years ago to nurture local sustainable development. She emphasizes the rich history of the Amazon, stating that many underestimate the enduring culture and technology of Kichwa communities. “As Kichwa, we want to bring those traditions back and teach our children to be proud of their heritage,” she asserts, highlighting the importance of cultural identity in fostering resilience.
The learning environment empowers local children and adults to creatively navigate environmental challenges while honoring the knowledge passed down through generations. For instance, Lucia notes the importance of Chontacuro, or edible insects, reconnecting the community with traditional diets during ecological challenges. “Chontacuro are a good source of protein, and it’s crucial to rediscover these local ingredients,” she explains, showcasing the initiative’s commitment to cultural and ecological nutrition.
Lucia’s educational method inspires children to express themselves, fostering confidence and critical thinking. During one lesson, Lucia engaged her students in dialogue about nature, eliciting responses that connected the sun’s warmth to local flora and fauna. The exercise culminated in children proposing actionable ways to protect their environment, such as tree planting and conserving water, evidencing their deepening understanding of their ecological responsibilities.
This Kichwa learning space exemplifies how environmental education can flourish outside traditional classroom settings, providing experiential knowledge that encourages lifelong learning.
Supported by the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) for 2030 initiative, UNESCO advocates for member states to integrate ESD into their educational frameworks, aiming to achieve all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By providing resources and guidance, UNESCO promotes meaningful initiatives, contextualizing ESD narratives through authentic, impactful stories.
The initiative in Ecuador’s Amazon highlights the profound impact of educational programs that intertwine cultural preservation with sustainability. By fostering Kichwa traditions and empowering the community, particularly the youth, the project not only addresses ecological challenges but also reinforces cultural identity. This model serves as a testament to the potential of experiential learning and community engagement in achieving sustainable development goals.
Original Source: www.webwire.com
