Students learn how to strengthen sustainable practices 

(MissionNewswire) Salesian students at the CEFMIBA Intercultural Bilingual Education Unit in Wasakentsa, Ecuador, participated in hands-on workshops focused on solid waste management and organic gardening, learning how to protect the environment and strengthen sustainable agricultural practices based on their Achuar identity.

A Salesian explained, “The students learned how to compost and recycle materials. They identified short- and long-cycle crops, recognized the value of traditional medicinal plants, drew sketches of their gardens, combining technical knowledge and tradition, and reflected on the impact of plastic on the Earth. With the support of their teachers, ideas were planted that will blossom into concrete practices for the care of our common house.”

The project known as “Strengthening the supply chain: organic farming, fair trade and participatory processes with the Indigenous Shuar and Achuar population of the Ecuadorian Amazon” was launched with the support of the Principality of Asturias, the Youth and Development Foundation, the Azkoitia Municipality and the Avilés City Council.

This is just one of many activities that is being carried out in 73 Shuar and Achuar communities to promote sustainable practices that protect the Amazon.

Salesians provide social development and educational programs across Ecuador to help youth who are poor gain an education and the skills for later employment. The skills they learn ensure they are able to care for themselves and their families while being contributing members of their communities.

Ecuador is one of the most inequitable societies in the world, according to UNICEF. The richest 20% of the population receives almost 50% of the national income, while the poorest 20% receives only 5%. According to the World Food Programme, almost 26% of all children under age 5 have stunted growth, increasing to 31% in rural areas and 47% in Indigenous communities.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Ecuador – Caring for the Amazon in the classroom: 97 Achuar students are prepared to protect their common home

Salesian Missions – Ecuador

UNICEF – Ecuador