As a teacher, it’s important to encourage curiosity and expand students’ knowledge beyond their community, state or even their country. One way to do so is by teaching them about Darien, a remote province in Panama that is rich in culture, history and biodiversity.

Located in the eastern part of Panama, Darien is the country’s largest province but also one of the least populated. The region’s thick forests and rugged terrain have made it hard to access and develop, which has preserved the indigenous communities and their traditions, as well as a vast array of plant and animal species.

By incorporating lessons about Darien in your curriculum, you can help students gain a better understanding of some of the following aspects:

Indigenous Cultures

According to the latest census, over 60% of Darien’s population is comprised of indigenous people, such as the Emberá, Wounaan, and Guna communities, who have lived in harmony with the land for centuries. You can teach students about the different tribes’ beliefs, customs, and practices, such as their art, music, storytelling, and spiritual ceremonies. You might also explore the challenges and opportunities they face in today’s society, such as preserving their language, protecting their rights, and gaining access to education and healthcare.

Environmental Studies

Darien harbours some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the world, including rainforests, wetlands, mangroves, and coastal areas, which are home to numerous endangered species, such as jaguars, harpy eagles, tapirs, and sea turtles. You can introduce students to the concept of biodiversity and help them understand the ways in which ecosystems are connected and impact human well-being. Additionally, you could teach about the challenges of conservation and sustainable development, such as deforestation, wildlife trafficking, climate change, and poverty.

History and Geography

Darien is also a region that has had a significant impact on global history. It was the site where the first European settlement in the Pacific (Santa María la Antigua del Darién) was established in the early 1500s, and where the first gold rush in the Americas occurred later on. It also served as a strategic point for trade and exploration, connecting Mesoamerica, South America, and the Caribbean. Students can learn about the region’s topography, climate, and natural resources, as well as the interactions between the indigenous people, settlers, pirates, and foreign powers, which shaped its identity and culture.

To teach students about Darien, you can use various resources and methods, depending on your grade level and subject. These could include books, documentaries, maps, testimonies, cultural events, outdoor activities, and guest speakers. You can also link the topics to the curriculum standards and incorporate interdisciplinary skills, such as critical thinking, communication, and empathy.

By teaching students about Darien, you can also promote multiculturalism, global citizenship, and environmental stewardship. You can help them see that despite the physical and cultural distance, we are all interconnected and have a responsibility to protect and respect our planet and its diverse inhabitants.