The first-ever batch composed of 10 youths from the locality finished Native House Construction Training offered by the Ifugao State University (IFSU) Hapao Campus, Hungduan, Ifugao.

They were recognized during the 5th Commencement Exercises of the Campus, along with graduates of degree programs on August 15, 2022.

“As the lone University in the province, IFSU believes that the transmission of the Indigenous Knowledge, Skills and Practices (IKSP) to the younger generation is one way of keeping the rich cultural heritage of the province. Aside from our special training programs geared towards the conservation of heritage, our University is also offering IKSP subjects across our programs,” said Dr. Eva Marie Codamon-Dugyon, University President.

IFSU Hapao Campus Executive Director Dr. Jose G. Daniels added that the program is their contribution to sustaining the construction of native houses tradition in Hungduan and nearby communities especially since the municipality is designated as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (UN FAO) and World Heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

“We are happy from the response of the young people to learn the skills in building native houses. With this, we plan to add more programs such as "dakdak" (stone tiling) and handicrafts,” remarked Dr. Daniels.

The training is a 4-month curriculum covering six (6) modules on the Ifugao Native House; Trees Species Used in Native House Construction; Exterior and Interior Designs Parts and Designs of a Native House; The Tools and Materials in the Construction of a Native House; How to-do of Constructing a Native House; and Gender Roles in the Construction of a Native House. The training employed tutorial, hands-on, and mentoring during the process. Community Indigenous Knowledge Holders on Native House served as mentors and trainers for the young apprentices. // Report from Jude C.Baggo