Pohnpei: Indigenous Learning Recovery Project

"Our cultural teachings will help this generation to continue our traditional ways of life." (J. Raymond, teacher, Saladak Elementary School) The Indigenous Learning Recovery Project (ILR) is bringing traditional knowledge, language, and practices to formal learning spaces in Pohnpei. At Saladak Elementary School (U Municipality, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia), ten elders taught classes for over 200 students in grades 4-8. Students learned skills in carving, traditional dance and storytelling, proverbs, weaving, gardening, fishing methods, village names, and honorific language and customary practices. This project was the work of PREL, under the leadership of Canita Rilometo Nakamura, and in partnership with Pohnpei Department of Education and Nia Tero. "For me, there is no challenge. We just need to allow to time to teach about our culture." (A. Lohn, teacher, Saladak Elementary School) ----- Video Credits Directed & Edited by Rob Lau Produced by Paul Hadik Assistant Editing by Jenise Lam Filmed by Berysin Salomon Jr. Second Camera by Sidney Nanpei Translations by Miranda Luelen Special Thanks Jasmine Mendiola Ryan Hawley Dan Lin Anne Quidez Canita Rilometo Nakamura Community of Saladak, Pohnpei, FSM