Environmental Education Curriculum introduced for Region 1 students

Students of Region One (Barima-Waini) are set to benefit from the introduction of a new Environmental Education Curriculum designed to enhance their understanding of their culture, landscapes and wildlife while strengthening conservation efforts in their communities. The curriculum titled, “My Barima-Waini and Me: Our Culture, Landscape and Wildlife” was officially handed over in February through a collaboration involving the Guyana Marine Conservation Society (GMCS) and several other partners. The programme builds on an environmental education model first developed in the Rupununi by the South Rupununi Conservation Society (SRCS), which combines scientific knowledge with traditional ecological knowledge to help students understand their environment and role communities play in protecting biodiversity.

Executive Member responsible for Partnerships a SRCS, Maya De Freitas, encouraged students to use the curriculum. To deepen their connection with their communities and environments. “Your knowledge, your stories and your connection to the land are powerful tools. Use this Environmental Education Curriculum to strengthen what you already know, deepen your understanding of why it’s important to protect your environment, celebrate your culture and shape a future you can be proud of,” De Freitas told the students during the ceremony. The curriculum was developed using a community-centred approach that included consultations with teachers, students, Toshaos, elders and local organisations to ensure the content reflects the culture and landscape of Barima-Waini region. The initiative was supported by the Sustainable Wildlife Management Programme with funding from the European Union (EU). Developers said the programme highlights the power of collaboration between communities, organisations and institutions in promoting environmental protection and empowering future generations.