Na Kilo: A PUEO initiative begins in Keaukaha: Public invited to series of cultural, science events

Na Kilo, a series of events highlighting Hawaiian cultural practices and science, technology, engineering and mathematics opportunities through a variety of hands-on activities, kicks off from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 21 at Palekai in Keaukaha.

The monthly series, which will take place the third Saturday of each month until May 2018, is sponsored by Perpetuating Unique Educational Opportunities Inc., or PUEO, for Hawaii’s youth and island communities.

This is a chance for educational outreach programs, organizations and businesses on Hawaii Island to share, explore and collaborate with one another for education. It is PUEO’s goal to create a space to engage and connect students of all ages and their families with a variety of career fields unique to Hawaii Island and Hawaiian culture.

During the first event, PUEO will showcase its new underwater rover that will explore the wonders of the aquatic world around Hawaii. Participants can enter a contest to name the rover,

PUEO also will share the progress of efforts to restore the open-ocean, double-hulled voyaging canoe Hokualaka‘i. The restoration will provide East Hawaii with a canoe for teaching traditional wayfinding and celestial navigation.

The goal of Na Kilo is to explore the activities taking place from the celestial heavens to the geology below the oceans.

Palekai, also known as Radio Bay, is an outdoor space with no electrical power. Groups requiring special needs for electricity should come prepared.

Participants should bring their own chairs, folding tables and pop-up-style tent. PUEO will provide one tent, two chairs and one table to the first 10 participants who join its effort.

There will be easy access to the ocean for those who want to demonstrate in the water.

To participate or for more information, contact Newton Chu at NJC@torkildson.com or 961-0406.