Emergency Pedagogy in Vale do Taquari/RS

Abstract

Abstract: This paper aims to report the experience of a Pedagogical Intervention conducted in the Taquari Valley, Rio Grande do Sul, as a humanitarian response to the catastrophe that impacted the lives of over 400,000 individuals. The intervention was developed by the Association for Emergency Pedagogy in Brazil, involving 21 volunteers and supported by an extensive network of schools, associations, and individuals. Emergency Pedagogy, as a field of knowledge, studies trauma and its effects, developing specialized resources to assist individuals in mitigating these effects to prevent future illness, while fostering resilience and building new life opportunities. More than 1,000 individuals were directly served across five cities, comprising approximately 700 children and adolescents and over 300 professionals. Beneficiaries reported experiencing relief, a sense of well-being, self-reflection, and self-expression; despite the desolate setting, they expressed joy in continuing to live.

Keywords: Trauma; Psychotraumatology; Pedagogy; Humanitarian Response.