Academic tour to Chagres National Park: a real-life approach to environmental management
The past April 12, students of the degree course Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Management Administration from UMECIT participated in an academic tour to Chagres National Park, one of the most important protected areas in the country. This training experience aimed to strengthen practical skills of future environmental managers through a direct approach to natural ecosystems and the socio-environmental dynamics that coexist in this strategic environment.
During the tour, the students explored various ecosystems in the park, understanding firsthand the importance of its biodiversity and its fundamental role in the water regulation that supplies the country, including the operation of the Panama Canal. Likewise, crucial issues were addressed such as impact of human activities, the urgency of implementing sustainable conservation models and the relevance of the environmental manager in the planning and execution of environmental protection strategies.
Interaction with local guides and surrounding communities This provided an opportunity to learn about the social and cultural dynamics that develop around the protected area. Students analyzed community-led sustainable development initiatives, such as:
- Community ecotourism
- Reforestation programs
- Environmental educational projects
This interdisciplinary approach integrated aspects ecological, social and economic, strengthening the value of collaborative work between academic institutions, local communities and environmental professionals.
One of the most significant moments of the activity was the Identification and field analysis of environmental stress factors, among them:
- Deforestation
- Improper land use
- Presence of solid waste
The students applied qualitative environmental diagnostic tools to assess these threats, formulating preliminary proposals aimed at the impact mitigation and to improvement of park conditions, from a technical and sustainable perspective.
This academic tour was an experiential learning exercise that connected theory with the reality of the environment, reinforcing the professional profile of the Environmental Management student. It also promoted the raising awareness about the value of natural heritage Panamanian and the social and technical responsibility for its preservation.
UMECIT continues to consolidate its commitment to comprehensive training, promoting activities that articulate the substantive functions of teaching, research and extension, in real-life settings that enrich the academic experience and promote a positive impact on society.
