Kapawe’no First Nation – Recently, students at KFN Collegiate’s Kapawe’no Nehiyawak School and Buffalo Bay Academy had the privilege of learning about Nehiyawak medicines from Knowledge Keeper Knowledge Keeper Herman Sutherland during their daily Nehiyawewin Isihcikewin class with Mrs Linda Gladue. Knowledge Keeper Sutherland shared valuable insights into the traditional healing practices of the territory, highlighting the significance of various plants and their medicinal properties. He emphasized the importance of respecting nature and understanding how these natural resources have been used for generations by the ancestors to promote health and well-being. The students, with Mrs Sharkawi’s Grade 4 class and Mr. Lee’s Grade 8/9 class shown in the pictures were eager to engage in discussions, deepening their appreciation for Nehiyawak pimachimowin and knowledge.
In addition to discussing the uses of traditional medicines, Knowledge Keeper Sutherland encouraged students to practice speaking Nehiyawewin. This effort to keep the language used daily and cultural practices aligns perfectly with the school’s commitment to fostering a strong connection to pimachimowin and wakotowin. By incorporating these teachings into their lifelong learning, KFN Collegiate is providing students with a richer learning experience and promoting respect for the environment and pimachimowin. The enthusiastic participation from students during the sessions demonstrated a growing recognition of the importance of cultural understanding and the lessons learned from Knowledge Keeper Sutherland will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on their academic journeys.

Last modified: October 23, 2024

