BY RODRICK DESURI
Auki
As more schools across the country include cultural days in their academic programs, students are being given an opportunity to reconnect with their traditions, identity, and cultural values.
The initiative comes at a time when technology, western influence, and migration to urban centres continue to distance many young people from their cultural roots.
Speaking to Island Sun, Su’u National Secondary School student Rubbie Dafe said the school’s cultural program has helped students better understand and appreciate their cultural backgrounds.
She said the event is especially important for students who were raised in urban areas and have limited opportunities to return to their home villages.
“As one of the students whose parents live in town, we were born in town and do not have time to go back home, so this kind of program really helps us a lot,” Dafe said.
She added that the program motivates students and reminds them of the beliefs, values, and ethnic identities they belong to.
Dafe also highlighted the growing concern that some parents no longer spend enough time to teach their children about traditional customs and cultural values.
“The most important part is when parents are not willing to spare time to share the customs, stories, values, identity, and pride of our culture,” she said.
Su’u National Secondary School teacher Steven Olia said students were encouraged to engage with elders from their ethnic groups before the event in order to learn more about their heritage.
“Because of the influence of technology and its impact on our culture, we gave one week for students to move around within their ethnic groups and ask questions from their elders,” Olia said.
He added that teachers also played an active role in supporting the students during the preparation period.
The school plans to host the cultural event annually as part of efforts to balance cultural learning with academic studies.
Photo credit: Uruitolo Photography
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