Embracing the world with confidence
Pinanaman also has a Han Chinese pupil who comes from Taitung. His parents have been involved in experimental education for more than ten years, and were searching for a kindergarten that would allow youngsters to develop freely. Eventually, they chose Pinanaman because “Aboriginal people have an intimate link with Nature that allows a child to firmly connect with the land,” they explained.
When an elder member of the tribe passes away, Pinanaman’s students intone songs of condolence at the funeral. If a classmate is absent for a few days, they take the initiative to bake cookies and visit him or her. It is simple actions like that, which reflect the Amis tribal spirit of mutual help, care and sharing, that are emphasized at Pinanaman.
Mayaw imagines a future in which all Aboriginal children can say who they are, can recount the history of their people, and know where they want to go.
The impact of education is far-reaching and long-lasting, and no one knows what the children who undergo total immersion in Amis at these community schools will become, but Nakaw believes that they will be happy adults.
Atomo, her eldest daughter, has been using Amis to study on her own since fifth grade and has traveled extensively to acquire the traditional skills of various indigenous peoples. She graduated from high school this year and is networking with friends to organize a camp for her age group that seeks to instill “pride of culture” among Taiwan’s Aborigines. It will be open to all ethnic groups, because a harmonious society is inclusive and tolerant.
“Let’s understand one another, discuss what we can do together for the future and make tomorrow’s world a better one,” says Atomo with a bright, confident look in her eyes.
Eye-pleasing picnic: Handpicked herbage adds natural beauty to the feast that awaits the pupils on an outing.
Pinanaman helps children live and learn via their mother tongue, internalize their tribal culture and so stride confidently into their future.