Taiwan has launched a groundbreaking initiative to promote Indigenous cultural learning in schools. Since 2020, the country’s K-12 Education Administration has actively supported schools in transforming classrooms into living cultural spaces. This effort aims not only to preserve Indigenous heritage but also to enrich students’ educational experiences.
Under this program, schools can receive up to NT$2 million (around US$65,243) in funding. Consequently, they develop learning environments that reflect Indigenous traditions. Moreover, schools work closely with tribal elders to ensure these spaces hold both cultural significance and educational value.
To date, nearly 90 schools have joined this program. As a result, they have created campuses where Indigenous cultural learning thrives. Additionally, teachers integrate ethnic elements into their lesson plans, helping students connect education with their cultural roots.
For example, Guanghua Elementary School in Taoyuan partnered with local Atayal communities. Together, they built a traditional Atayal house and a hunter’s trail. The house was constructed using cedar, bamboo, and rattan, following traditional techniques. Thus, it reflects the Atayal principle of “living with nature.”
Similarly, Ruibei Elementary School in Hualien County constructed a house blending Bunun and Amis architectural features. This project symbolized respect and coexistence between the two Indigenous groups. Importantly, community members, teachers, students, and elders all worked on the building.
Furthermore, Hualien County’s Taiping Elementary School, an experimental school for the Bunun tribe, recently completed a traditional slate house. The school held a blessing ceremony to honor the structure, which represents family history. In addition, the house plays a key role in the school’s curriculum.
The K-12 Education Administration continues to promote programs that merge tribal wisdom with local resources. Therefore, the goal is to foster culturally rich learning environments that deepen students’ connection to their Indigenous identity. Officials say the program boosts students’ confidence and pride in their heritage.
Experts highlight that such efforts strengthen cultural preservation and community bonds. They also believe that Indigenous cultural learning in schools helps bridge generational gaps and revitalizes traditions. Consequently, the program’s success could serve as a model for other countries aiming to integrate cultural education.
Looking ahead, Taiwan plans to expand the program. More schools will receive support to develop similar projects tailored to their local Indigenous communities. By doing so, Taiwan hopes to ensure that Indigenous heritage continues to flourish within its education system.
Overall, the Indigenous cultural learning initiative marks a significant step in promoting diversity and cultural awareness in Taiwan’s classrooms. It offers students a unique opportunity to experience and appreciate Indigenous traditions firsthand. In this way, education becomes a living, breathing reflection of Taiwan’s rich cultural landscape.
