UC Center for Public Policies and Minera El Abra Launch Diploma Program for Indigenous Communities in Chile

June 25, 2021 - In 2020, the Public Policy Center of Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and Minera El Abra launched a new online diploma course to train indigenous community members in the Antofagasta Region. 

Called Sembrando Saberes, or Sowing Knowledge, the study program aims to help community leaders by sharing resources and building skills to mediate conflicts, protect the environment, enhance community influence, preserve local heritage and design projects to benefit their communities. The classes are offered online and internet is provided to students.

The program content and its methodology were developed collaboratively between academics, experts, local actors, and community members.

Recently, a group of 100 students from among more than 15 indigenous communities in the Antofagasta Region became the first graduates of the new, months-long, tuition-free program. The next group of community members are starting the program this month.

To learn more about how Freeport-McMoRan works in partnership with local stakeholders to support sustainable futures, please visit fcx.com/sustainability.

See the 2020 Annual Report on Sustainability for more information on the company's social, economic and environmental efforts.

Photo: UC Center for Public Policies and Minera El Abra Launch Diploma Program for Indigenous Communities in Chile.