This Programme provides a rare and immersive learning experience that allows participants to connect with the traditional knowledge and practices of the Atayal indigenous people. This programme offers an opportunity to explore the cultural and practical aspects of hunting, passed down through generations of Atayal hunters. It is a deep dive into the skills and wisdom that have allowed the Atayal people to live in harmony with their natural environment for centuries.
At the heart of the programme is the concept of sustainable hunting. Participants will learn how the Atayal people have honed their ability to track animals through the dense forests and mountainous terrain of Taiwan. This skill is not just about hunting but about understanding the intricate relationships between animals, plants, and the ecosystem. Students will acquire knowledge for identifying animal tracks, reading signs of animal movement, and learning the rhythms of nature. These skills are fundamental to maintaining a balance between taking from the land and ensuring its future sustainability.
Crafting hunting tools is another key element of the programme. Participants will get hands-on experience in making hunting traps. Through this process, students will not only learn how to create hunting traps but also gain insight into the Atayal’s connection to the materials and resources around them.
Besides that, we will teach the knowledge of hunting spear. It is the core tool of a hunter. These spears are not only hunting tools but also important symbols in Atayal's indigenous cultures, representing a deep connection to nature and survival wisdom. After the small lecture of hunting spears, we will have an archery experience.
An essential aspect of the programme is the focus on plant identification and usage. Participants will learn how the Atayal people use native plants for food, medicine, and other practical purposes. The programme emphasises the importance of respecting and understanding the natural world, as the Atayal have done for centuries. Students will also be introduced to various survival techniques, such as building shelter, finding water, and preparing food using traditional methods. These skills are taught within the context of the Atayal worldview, where every element of nature is seen as interconnected and sacred.
Through this immersive experience, participants will not only gain practical survival skills but also a deeper understanding of the Atayal people’s cultural practices and worldview. The programme highlights the importance of sustainability, respect for nature, and the deep knowledge that indigenous cultures have developed to live in balance with their environment. By the end of the course, participants will leave with a new perspective on how traditional ecological knowledge can inform modern environmental practices. They will also gain an appreciation for the Atayal people’s resilience and their ability to thrive in Taiwan’s rugged landscapes for generations.
