The first edition of the scientific film cycle at the Santo Tomás University Headquarters recently concluded, leaving a notable impression on the local community. This initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Basic Sciences in collaboration with the Communications and Extension Directorate, sought to bridge the gap between audiovisual media and pressing regional environmental issues, fostering an thankfulness for science through artistic expression and thoughtful citizen engagement.

The film cycle featured complimentary screenings of three thought-provoking documentaries centered on environmental and social themes: Lavra, Cielo and Arica. Thes screenings were strategically scheduled to coincide with meaningful commemorative dates, including Earth Day and Habitat Day.

Reginaldo Prado, a faculty member within the Department of Basic Sciences and the driving force behind the event, explained, “the objective was that each documentary tried a theme that gave rise to an instance of reflection, ending with a conversation between the guest experts and the public. In this way, each of the documentaries with ideas and updated reflections coudl be complemented, provided by the panel of experts”.

Community Engagement and Reflection

The cycle’s closing event featured Danae Terraza, a student of the Technical Career in Social Work of the Santo Tomás Professional Institute, representing the Mamitas del Led Foundation. She participated in a post-screening discussion following the presentation of the Arica documentary.

This day was like opening the chest and letting the world see what hurts us,but also what moves us.

“This day was like opening the chest and letting the world see what hurts us, but also what moves us. A meeting space, memory, mutual care was opened. All this made me reaffirm that what we do, the values we carry, and the arduous work that entails is entirely on the way we want. In these spaces there is a better future to leave a better future. Terrace highlighted.

Understanding Environmental Film Cycles