How can we spark children’s interest in conserving the Amazon rainforest? One way is to bring them closer to nature through experiences that combine learning, exploration, and active participation. During August, A Rocha Peru organized three environmental education workshops with the science club in the Monte Carmelo Native Community, giving primary school students the opportunity to learn more about their natural surroundings.
The first activity, held on August 13, brought together 18 students from fourth, fifth, and sixth grade for a visit to the school’s botanical garden. Accompanied by teachers Absalón Vargas Pereira and Leonor Loaiza Seri, traditional knowledge holder Máximo Kategari, and volunteer Jacobo Lasheras, the students learned about medicinal plants and their importance. They also helped clean the garden and renew the signs identifying the different plant species.
On August 19, 16 students participated in a botanical specimen collection workshop, gathering plant samples within the school grounds. This activity is part of an ongoing learning process that will continue with a workshop on pressing and mounting medicinal plants, with the aim of creating a botanical collection for the school.
Two days later, on August 21, another 16 students took part in a maintenance and planting session in the school garden. During the activity, they prepared the soil, removed weeds, and planted crops such as coriander, cucumber, spinach, watermelon, and melon, strengthening their knowledge through hands-on experience.
Meanwhile, at School No. 501458 in Igoriteshiari, 15 students took an important step in organizing their science club. Through an election, they chose the name “Protectores de la naturaleza” and formed their leadership committee, made up of fifth- and sixth-grade students.
Beyond the knowledge gained, these activities provide opportunities for children and young people to take an active role in caring for their environment. Through science, teamwork, and the exchange of knowledge, A Rocha Peru continues to foster an interest in biodiversity and Amazonian forest conservation, starting in the classroom.
