Cultural Learning

Volovuhu School is starting a very interesting project that has had a great start so far.  The village and school are concerned that local customs and traditions are being lost.  Many of the bubus (oldfala) have knowledge of these customs but the younger generations are less and less interested in doing things the old fashion way.  The school has decided to take on the challenge of teaching some cultural skills and beliefs during Friday afternoons.  In America this is somewhat similar to our enrichment block I think.  This is a new initiative by the school but so far so good!!

Here Bubu Edward and his son Mr. Jason (the Headmaster) are talking about fishing techniques to the students Years 1 - 4.

This picture shows Bubu Simeon (also the school Chairman) teaching the Years 5-8 girls how to pin natanguras leaves to make the thatched roofing.  I already know how to do this too (see my earlier post!) :)

The boys in years 5-8 are learning how to now weave the natanguras onto the house's structure.  Both the boys and girls got to learn each skill but were taught in two groups.

The students have also had cultural learning sessions about respect, weaving bamboo to make walls, and building a fence.  This will continue throughout the year.  The school staff hopes doesn't want to take away the opportunity for parents to teach these skills to their children.  The hope is to ensure that the cultural beliefs, values, and skills are not lost as the western influence continues to take over.