Cake Talk by Sofía Rojas Ruiz
The Education Program from the Network of Colombian Astronomy Students (RECA in Spanish) is addressing the absence of astronomy education in Colombian rural schools. Despite the growing interest in science among students in these areas, infrastructural limitations such as lack of internet access hinder traditional educational efforts. To bridge this gap, we are developing the project "BARCo: Bringing Astronomy to Rural Communities of Colombia" with support from the Office of Astronomy for Development. We aim to deliver astronomy education directly to rural schools, reaching approximately 5,000 children from all regions of Colombia across 100 institutions. Recognizing the challenges of internet access, BARCo adopts a multifaceted approach. Each school receives a box containing materials for astronomy activities, games, and a USB drive with instructional materials and interviews with Colombian astronomers. These resources are supplemented by online access to materials through the RECA website and YouTube channel, ensuring the scalability and longevity of the project. To ensure engagement and monitor progress, teachers are encouraged to share photos and videos of activities, fostering accountability and feedback. Furthermore, BARCo encourages cultural exchange from all the diverse communities in Colombia by incorporating a final activity where schools create "Voyager Golden Records" showcasing their customs and astronomical knowledge. By fostering collaboration among diverse communities, the project aims to promote social cohesion and peace in the country. Overall, BARCo represents a pioneering effort to democratize access to STEAM education, leveraging technology and community engagement to empower rural schools and foster scientific literacy and social harmony in Colombia.