Serving over 300 indigenous people, our unique Intercultural education initiatives in Shipibo indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon combine Western and traditional indigenous forms of knowledge in order to provide high-quality education that strengthens cultural identity and empowers indigenous youth from an early age. The teaching of traditional agricultural and forestry practices provides regeneratively grown and nutrient rich food sources for the students and community.
What is the issue, problem, or challenge?
Schools in indigenous communities in Peru offer poor quality education with insufficient resources, unmotivated teachers, and few classes. The curriculum places little value on indigenous culture, causing many indigenous youth to lose their language and customs. Additionally, food insecurity and malnourishment are serious problems due to unsustainable agricultural and fishing practices, and schools do not prepare students or the community to confront these issues, essential to their survival.
How will this project solve this problem?
We are working with Shipibo University students, professors and elders to not only provide a high-quality Western education, but also use experiential learning methods to teach Shipibo young people about ancient agricultural practices, medicinal plant knowledge, traditional art and music, nutrition, human rights and more. We are also running personal development workshops to help young people develop their self esteem and leadership abilities.
Potential Long Term Impact
Our diverse intercultural education initiatives have already created visible results and engendered high praise from community members, neighboring schools, and the Regional Government. We aim to replicate the program in more communities across the Peruvian Amazon.
Total Funding Received to Date: $11,880
Remaining Goal to be Funded: $21,420
Total Funding Goal: $33,300