MIT - Workshops in the Cook Islands

We were to offer workshops that were unrelated to our presentations as a thank you to the staff of the school hosting us.  I planned and took with me 3 Spheros (robotic balls) and two i-pads, so the teachers could work with the Spheros. I thought it was a great idea, even if the internet didn't work as they worked with a Bluetooth connection.

Welcome

Our day started beautifully with a traditional welcome and dancing. The students performed wonderfully, the drummers an intricate part.

Workshops

When we landed we found out they had organised for us to do workshops with them. So we made a sarong or as they called a 'pareu'. We printed the sarong using fabric paint, a roller and a large white piece of material laid over the board. The plywood was layered with patterns that could be printed. 

The next workshop was coconut husking and peeling to get the coconut and juice out for dinner. Demonstrated to us by a group of boys who were patient and encouraging.

The third workshop was weaving. 

This one I was really interested in as I enjoy weaving with flax, this time I learnt to weave with the leaf of a coconut tree. First, we were encouraged to weave our plate for tomorrows umu. There were students weaving the base and top for the umu basket, bowls and baskets for the food to be put in to cook. After completing my plate I have to try weaving a bowl, it was great fun.

It was then back to the resort for a cool swim, relaxing in the air conditioning or a mocktail poolside before a quick practise for the main event. The presentations.