Nearly 90 children and adolescents between fourth and sixth grade from Gultro School participated in a series of audiovisual and social media workshops promoted by Codelco El Teniente Division in collaboration with the Surveillance Board of the First Section of the Cachapoal River and its Tributaries, within the framework of the Environmental Water Education Program.

"In previous experiences we learned that elementary school students had very good ideas, but they had problems constructing or creating their message. In this context we work to provide basic tools that help them express their ideas in appropriate formats, with basic audiovisual concepts," said Vanessa Mancisidor, coordinator of the program.

In addition to learning how to develop content in different formats, the students were prepared to learn about the conscious use of social media. "Another objective of these workshops is to prepare them to understand the risks of social media," added the coordinator.

The activity was supported by the Communications Department of the El Teniente Division, which provided the children with a team of journalists and an audiovisual producer to guide the students in the use of elements such as a camera, lights and a portable recording studio in order to guarantee a complete educational experience.

Positive effect

“Since the first workshop was held in fourth grade, the children's reaction changed. They no longer use their phones in class to keep up with social media. It also helped us to get the children to talk to each other more. Now they understand that communication is essential to solve their conflicts,” said Jenny Ramírez, director of Gultro School.

Jocelyn Rojas, head teacher for fourth grade, recounted how the workshops have influenced the students in the long term. “The children participated with a lot of energy and were very happy when they saw themselves in the video.” She also highlighted how the students have applied what they have learned about the use and care of water, contributing ideas in class.

The workshops not only provided technical audiovisual training, but also promoted soft skills such as confidence and teamwork. “I liked recording and now I feel like I can communicate without being so embarrassed with more people and meet more people. Being in front of the camera was a unique experience,” said Rodrigo Arancibia, a sixth grade student.

The activities continue to contribute to the comprehensive development of children and adolescents in the Gultro community, promoting environmental care and the responsible use of digital tools.

Workshops for seniors

This year, the program has also developed 5 theoretical-practical workshops together with the Senior Citizens Association and the Residents' Board of the 10 de agosto de Gultro population, in the Olivar commune. These activities have prepared the community in topics such as conservation of the Chilean native forest, creation of homemade artificial micro wetlands using grey water and actions to care for water.

In these instances, more than twenty people have developed their skills and socialized around these issues together with their neighbors to generate collective awareness in caring for the environment.

For five years, the Water Environmental Education Program has been implemented in various localities such as Coya, Chacayes, Rancagua and Olivar. Through active collaboration, more than 110 workshops have been held, benefiting more than 1,700 people.