Our Work with TuktoyaktukÂ
In an exciting initiative, we have joined forces with the vibrant community of Tuktoyaktuk to embark on a groundbreaking project that started in Fall 2023 and will continue over the Summer of 2024. At the heart of this endeavor is the development of the “Bridging Roots” app, a venture that challenges traditional educational boundaries by involving high school students directly in its creation. This project is a deep dive into the fusion of technology and tradition, designed to provide invaluable learning experiences while honoring and weaving Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into the functionality of an educational app.
Our collaboration took a significant stride forward when program director, Daniela Damian visited Tuktoyaktuk’s Mangilaluk School. Here, the program was given the unique opportunity to work hand-in-hand with Indigenous students.
This venture into Tuktoyaktuk and the hands-on involvement with Mangilaluk School’s students exemplify our commitment to bringing STEM education to the most remote of communities. By doing so, we are not only broadening the horizons of these students but also enriching the STEM field with diverse perspectives and innovative solutions that arise from this unique confluence of ideas. The “Bridging Roots” app stands as a testament to what can be achieved when education is made accessible and inclusive, demonstrating the profound impact of integrating Indigenous wisdom and methodologies into the development of technological solutions that serve even the most remote communities. Through this project, we are not just teaching students how to code or develop apps; we are inspiring them to build bridges of understanding and respect across cultures, empowering them to become the innovators of tomorrow.