Indigenous literature reaches Rio’s public schools

Over 5,000 students will experience Indigenous art and culture in the new edition of ONG Parceiros da Educação Rio’s cultural projects.

With the theme “The Future Is Now,” the projects Lá Vem História and Antiracist Cultural Formation launched today (March 12) at Barão de Itacurussá Municipal School, in Tijuca. The initiative brings Indigenous literature and ancestral knowledge to 28 municipal schools, benefiting more than 5,000 students throughout 2026.

Celebrating three years of activity, the program promotes artistic and cultural engagement in and outside classrooms. This year, 600 children’s books by authors such as Daniel Munduruku, Yaguarê Yamã, and Eliane Potiguara will be distributed. It also includes reading sessions and workshops in visual arts, theater, music, and dance, inspired by thinkers like Ailton Krenak and Antonio Bispo.

The opening event featured writers Carina Pataxó and Taiana Rodrigues, who gave a special lecture and had their works donated to participating schools. According to Rio’s Education Secretary, Renan Ferreirinha, the project’s impact goes beyond classrooms, fostering cultural awareness among students.

In partnership with UFRJ, the NGO also runs a reading mediator training program, offering R$1,000 scholarships to 22 university students who lead reading sessions and creative workshops in schools, nurturing a love for literature in children.

In 2025, the project reached 4,519 students in reading activities, engaged 4,237 in artistic presentations, and donated over 1,600 books. Around 650 children took part in cultural outings.

Parceiros da Educação Rio is recognized for improving public education in Rio. Founded in 2009, it has reached over 40,000 students and earned distinctions such as “Brazil’s 100 Best NGOs” (2022 and 2024) and the Pedro Ernesto Merit Medal (2024).

Photo: ONG Parceiros da Educação Rio