Sustainable Development & Global Trade

Panama

Duration 10 days

Suggested group size 12 - 20 students / 2 Envoys Field Staff

Suggested ages 14 - 18

Experience Adventure & Sustainability
Indigenous Land Rights

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Sustainable Development & Global Trade

Panama III

Panama, a sought-after tourist spot, offers diverse experiential education amid indigenous cultures, local farmers, researchers, and international corporations. This program engages students in this epicenter of International Trade, exploring current cultural and environmental challenges, international diplomacy and trade realities, and local perceptions of the world and their surroundings.

“Unveiling the treasures of both nature and civilization.“

“From the biodiversity of Darien to the modernity of Panama City, this isthmus invites explorers to traverse its landscapes. “

Impact Statement Everywhere we go, we carry a promise – to engage with respect, act with purpose, and leave a positive imprint. As envoys of our journey is more than travel; Our footprint is light, but our impact is profound, creating bridges of cooperation and mutual growth across the globe.

Day 1

Students are welcomed by Envoys educators upon arrival. After checking in at accommodations, they gather for a safety briefing and team-building activity. The day continues with exploration of the area and a welcome dinner, offering a taste of local cuisine.

Day 2

In the morning, we explore the revolutionary Panama Canal locks, analyzing their history and ecosystem impact. After lunch at City of Knowledge, we hike through the urban jungle of Parque Metropolitano. At the highest point, we rest and discuss the program's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Day 3

Students walk through the Cinta Costera, a land reclamation project on the oceanfront, and conduct a people-watching activity to understand the culture of the city. We then explore the Punta Culebra Nature Center. After lunch on the Amador Causeway, they enjoy an afternoon bike ride in the area.

Day 4

We spend a day in service of the maintenance of the Rainforest Discovery Center in Gamboa, addressing conservation needs like trail reinforcement and bird sanctuary upkeep. After exploring the canopy tower, we visit Frank Gehry's BioMuseo and later take a sunset bike ride along the city's path.

Day 5

We take a day trip to Isla Taboga, a booming tourist island 45 minutes from Panama City, exploring its historic streets and enjoying lunch. After a beach cleanup to address environmental concerns related to the tourism boom, we return to Panama City for dinner on the Amador Causeway.

Day 6

We explore the vital role of women in Panama's development, understanding an urban organization's moral imperative to empower young women. In the afternoon, we discuss and process our experiences with extraordinary leaders addressing marginalization and promoting inclusive growth.

Day 7

LocalinPTY, a grassroots organization, provides meaningful education in Panama City's El Chorrillo neighborhood, once deemed the most dangerous. We engage cross-culturally with students, exploring commonalities. Afterward, we reflect on inclusivity and exclusion in our own cities.

Day 8

On our final day in Panama, we tour the revitalized Casco Viejo, a World Heritage Site with Spanish Colonial Architecture and explore the economic and cultural impact of tourism. In the evening we participate in a reflection workshop to process the program’s learnings and experiences.

Highlights

Lenses of Inquiry

The role of the canal

Completed in 1914 and handed over to Panama in 1999, the Panama Canal now constitutes 40% of the country's GDP. Despite its economic importance, questions arise about its impact on residents and the environment—how has it affected lives on land and below water?

Sustainable Development

Panama, known for its rich biodiversity and five indigenous communities deeply tied to the land, faces threats from the development of fishing and shipping industries. How can developers collaborate with conservationists, and what is the impact of climate change on Panama and its people?

Economics

Panama City, with its modern infrastructure and green spaces for recreation, has attracted a capital influx and immigration from around the world. However, has this improved access to essential services for citizens? How has the redevelopment of tourist hotspots impacted local residents?