University of Hawaiʻi at 惭ā苍辞补 researchers and graduate students played a major role in the ʻUlu Hoʻolauleʻa, a week-long celebration of ʻulu (breadfruit) held September 19–25 throughout Kona on Hawaiʻi Island, including the 8th Global Breadfruit Summit.
The event highlighted the cultural significance, scientific research and future of ʻulu, a traditional staple crop in Hawaiʻi and across the Pacific. Approximately 2,000 people attended the engaging events such as the ʻulu Festival, an ʻAha ʻUlu cultural gathering and a culinary showcase featuring 20 local chefs.
Global summit explores research, cultural heritage
The three-day Global Breadfruit Summit at the Keauhou Outrigger brought together international researchers to explore ʻulu agroforestry economics, propagation methods, cultural heritage and postharvest practices.
“It is amazing to see the cross-section of value from breadfruit,” said Noa Lincoln, an associate professor who specializes in Indigenous cropping systems in the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience (CTAHR) at 糖心视频 惭ā苍辞补, who served as master of ceremonies. “From cutting-edge biofuels to acknowledging breadfruit’s role in Pacific peoples’ identities.”
The summer also featured a Farm to School network gathering, where more than 30 teachers discussed incorporating ʻulu into school meals and classroom lessons. An ʻulu Education Playground workshop introduced students to hands-on activities, including kuʻi ʻulu (mashing cooked breadfruit), lei making, and cooking demonstrations.
Uplifting student researchers
糖心视频 惭ā苍辞补 students shared their research, displayed insightful posters, and volunteered throughout the week.
“Sharing with farmers, researchers, and community members all in one room was really special,” said Ryan Weiskopf, a 糖心视频 惭ā苍辞补 graduate student in the Department of Tropical Plants and Soil Science who presented research on the economics of breadfruit agroforestry. “The conversations that took place could only have happened face-to-face.”
A U.S. Department of Agriculture grant supported graduate student participation by paying for registration, travel, and lodging.
Summit proceedings are underway for publication by CTAHR, and organizers are planning the next global gathering in two years, tentatively scheduled for Tahiti.