University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu faculty and staff have undertaken an initiative dedicated to food security and cultural rejuvenation through identifying and sharing the many functions of niu and ‘ulu. The Uluniu Project at UH West O‘ahu represents a larger cultural agroforestry movement dedicated to food security and cultural rejuvenation as part of a commitment to ‘ike kupuna (elder wisdom) and ‘ike ‘āina (learning from land).
The community is invited to learn about this indigenous initiative, which is one of dozens of booths, demonstrations, and activities that are a part of Hawai‘i’s largest family-friendly STEM event on Saturday, April 22, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at UH West O‘ahu. The Ellison Onizuka Day of Exploration (ODE) presented by Hawaiian Electric is produced by The Boy Scouts of America, Aloha Council, and honors the legacy of Eagle Scout and Astronaut Ellison Onizuka. The event is free and open to the public.
“This year’s Onizuka Day of Exploration at UH West O‘ahu celebrates the fusion of scouting skills, STEM activities, and a deep appreciation for Hawaiian culture, resulting in an event that truly honors the spirit of exploration and the unique connection to the land that the Hawaiian people cherish,” said Alim Shabazz, Chairperson for ODE.
At the Uluniu Project booth, attendees can learn from indigenous knowledge-keeper Indrajit Gunasekara from Southern Sri Lanka, about the many functions of the niu (coconut) tree. Gunasekara will share ideas about niu diversity, niu growth patterns, how to care for kumu niu (coconut tree) and how to develop an uluniu (coconut grove). Participants will help weed and care for our uluniu here on campus and see 12 niu poko (six varieties of coconut dwarfs) growing beside eight ‘ulu (breadfruit) trees.
“All people benefit from exposure to indigenous and western style education methods and pedagogy,” said Dr. Manulani Aluli Meyer, the Konohiki of Kūlana o Kapolei. “They are complementary to each other and represent synergistic coherence vital for our times. What this means is we can keep learning from the specificity of place and bring those lessons into larger systems that will ultimately prioritize how best to care for these places to insure our survival. Our very future depends on the choices we make now. The Boy Scouts of America can play an important role in how we will enter this next phase of science education with the inclusion of ancient ways of knowledge production through natural world understanding. This is what Onizuka Day is all about here at UH West O‘ahu.”
Onizuka Day attendees can expect numerous hands-on activities, workshops, and classes for all ages to enjoy. With a special focus on Hawaiian culture, sustainability, and career development, there is something for everyone to learn and discover. Workshops on robotics, coding, and renewable energy are also planned. There will also be a variety of interactive exhibits and displays, as well as live demonstrations and talks from experts in various fields. Questions about the event can be directed to info@onizukaday.com.
“Our partnership with UH West O‘ahu for the Onizuka Day of Exploration has enabled us to enrich the event by integrating indigenous practices and perspectives into the program,” Shabazz said. “We believe that combining STEM education with the wisdom of Hawaiian culture creates a profoundly meaningful and impactful experience for all participants.”
“This exceptional blend of heritage and innovation will inspire a new generation of explorers who appreciate the significance of the land and the environment,” Shabazz said.