The Natural History Museum of the Industrial University of Santander (UIS) hosted the launch of the video podcast “El camino de la serpiente” (The Path of the Snake), a production made by UIS biology graduates in collaboration with ISAGEN and Biótica Consultores LTDA. The project aims to raise awareness about the symbolic, ecological, and scientific importance of snakes in ecosystems.
“These projects are essential because they allow the community to understand the relevance of snakes in the environment, lose their fear of them, and learn about the places they usually inhabit. In addition, many of the researchers involved were trained at the UIS, which demonstrates the academic ability of our students and graduates. This material not only promotes conservation, but also highlights the talent of the University,” said Diana Marcela Sánchez Lobo, professor at the School of Biology.
For researchers, these types of audiovisual tools have a high impact on the community, especially in rural areas, where it is necessary to raise awareness about the conservation of species that are key to the balance of ecosystems. In addition, they highlight the contribution of snakes to scientific research, particularly in the pharmaceutical field.
“This project began as a strategy to address the conflict between rural communities and snakes. Over the course of 10 episodes, viewers will learn about the biology, ecology, economic importance, and health significance of these species in a dynamic way, with tours of different regions of the country,” explained Luis Fernando Cáceres, CEO of Biótica Consultores LTDA.
The graduates highlighted the role of the UIS in their professional training and the opportunity it has given them to contribute to the care of the country’s ecosystems.
“Being a biologist from the UIS has allowed me to reach the professional role I perform today, contributing to environmental education and promoting coexistence between communities and snakes. With this project, we are taking the first step on the snake’s path and hope to reach many corners of the country,” said Diana Caballero, an environmental professional at ISAGEN.
The event was also attended by biology students, who highlighted the academic and educational value of this type of initiative.
“It is a very educational tool that fulfills its role of scientific dissemination. It also inspires us to come up with new teaching methods to bring knowledge to the community and promote environmental protection,” said Daniela Calderón, a biology student.
The first episode of the video podcast is now available and can be viewed at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2nxFsPRwEE
We also invite you to follow the official Instagram account of “El camino de la serpiente” for more details about the project: https://www.instagram.com/elcaminodelaserpiente_podcast?igsh=MW0zazd1MWFzcmhraw==
