Meet a NASA astronaut, see helicopters up close, watch chess and robotics tournaments, enjoy food trucks, and engage in interactive workshops presented by University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu faculty and staff — these are just some of the highlights of the 8th annual Ellison Onizuka Day of Exploration from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 6, at UH West O‘ahu.
The Onizuka Day of Exploration (ODE) — Hawai‘i’s largest family-friendly science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) event with more than 100 hands-on activities, workshops, and classes for all ages to enjoy — is produced by the Boy Scouts of America, Aloha Council. The event is free and open to the public.
“To honor the legacy of astronaut Ellison Onizuka, we’re bringing together an unprecedented array of attractions, combining the thrill of STEM with the essence of our Hawaiian culture at this year’s Onizuka Day of Exploration,” said ODE Chairman Alim Shabazz.
According to the ODE website, the all-day event starts with an opening ceremony at 8 a.m., with booths, exhibits, and workshops opening at 9 a.m. and closing at 4 p.m. The event features workshops on robotics, coding, renewable energy, and more; a variety of interactive exhibits and displays; and live demonstrations and talks from experts in various fields.
“Picture this: helicopters hovering in the sky, an awe-inspiring 45-foot inflatable whale from NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), and a live 3D spaceman mural being crafted by the talented Tehrell Porter Designs,” Shabazz said. “Add to that a dynamic chess tournament, over 100 interactive booths brimming with innovation, more than 40 enriching workshops, and a lineup of food trucks to fuel your explorations.”
Shabazz added that there will also be a presentation by a NASA astronaut who will offer a glimpse into the wonders of space exploration, a VEX Robotics Tournament, the ever-popular Pinewood Derby, and large vehicle static displays showcasing the marvels of engineering.
“UH West O‘ahu is well represented with workshops and booths at the 2024 Onizuka Day of Exploration,” noted Dr. Richard Jones, professor of science education at UH West O‘ahu. “You will find an amazing variety to choose from — art to archeology and lomilomi to a music maker space.”
UH West O‘ahu faculty and staff are presenting nearly half of the more than 40 workshops at ODE. Among them:
- Explore entrepreneurship and money management, and have some fun with producing and selling cookies! This activity will taste so good and you will learn how businesses make profits. Presented by Katie Landgraf, Leslie Rush, and Amy Little.
- In celebration of Native Hawaiian Plant Month, discover the unique flora of the islands and create beautiful leaf prints using leaves sourced from endemic plants found right here in the Honouliuli ahupua‘a. Presented by Carina Chernisky.
- Students in grades PreK to 3 and their ‘ohana will have the opportunity to engage with Hawaiian language in response to sustainability in terms of being able to take care of the forest, ocean, and stream. Presented by Kainoa Nāhulu.
- Learn how to play Konane, a Hawaiian board game of strategy and reflection. It is sometimes referred to as ‘checkers,’ but there is a process to understanding how and when one moves! Presented by Dr. Kealani Cook.
“The partnership between the Aloha Council and UH West O‘ahu is at the heart of this event, underscoring our commitment to inspire and engage the community in the transformative power of STEM education,” Shabazz said. “Together, we are setting the stage for a day filled with learning, discovery, and fun.”
Dr. Camonia Graham-Tutt, UH West O‘ahu Interim Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, highly encourages the community to attend this year’s ODE.
“As a past Onizuka Day of Exploration attendee, I was in complete awe of the number of opportunities available for young attendees, parents, kūpuna, and more to learn and grow in STEM,” Graham-Tutt said. “The workshops were not only plentiful, but they were also highly engaging and exciting. I have no doubt that this year will be even more amazing with more STEM opportunities!”
Attendees are encouraged to prepare for sun, rain, and wind, and to wear sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes. For updated information and schedules, and to register in advance, visit www.onizukaday.com. For questions, email info@onizukaday.com.