Eight-year-old students from St. Catherine’s Primary and Bayley’s Primary in St. Philip have been selected to participate in Ancestral Intelligence: Sustainable Models—a 12-week, project-based learning initiative conceptualized and coordinated by The Diasporadical Initiative.
Launched in October 2025, the programme introduces sustainability concepts through the lens of African ancestral knowledge. Using STEM-based approaches, students will explore how ancient civilizations – in Africa – built enduring systems rooted in balance with nature.
The hands-on learning will culminate in models of iconic structures such as the Egyptian Pyramids and the Great Djinguereber Mosque in Timbuktu, Mali, to be showcased during the schools’ African Awareness Week and to the public on Africa Day 2026.
“Just recently we saw the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa across the northern Caribbean—a stark reminder of why sustainability must be embedded in every aspect of our lives,”
said Prince Kuntulo Bazawule, Director of The Diasporadical Initiative.
“Our ancestors built empires with environmental intelligence and deep respect for natural systems. Now, as the world turns to 3D-printed mud houses and other ancient principles reimagined for modern times, this project could not be more timely—or more relevant.”
The initiative invites students to work alongside experts in science, architecture, design, and sustainability, transforming classrooms into creative labs of innovation and heritage. This project is designed not only to introduce sustainability concepts to young learners but also to serve as a foundation for developing other projects which provide real-world solutions to the immediate challenges facing their communities.
The response from educators has been overwhelmingly positive. Ms. Kim Brathwaite, Principal of St. Catherine’s Primary, shared:
“When The Diasporadical Initiative approached us to participate in this pilot, we were delighted. Having collaborated with them before, we’ve seen first-hand how their passion makes learning not just engaging but transformative for our children. This initiative is timely and welcomed as it facilitates and supports the MEdT’s drive to incorporate Project Based Learning into our classroom lessons.”
Ancestral Intelligence: Sustainable Models runs until February 2026, blending cultural education, STEM learning, soft skills and environmental awareness into a single, impactful experience that bridges past and future.
To learn more about The Diasporadical Initiative and its work in reconnecting Caribbean communities with their ancestral knowledge systems, visit Diasporadical.org.
Deidre is the Marketing and Communications Lead for the Diasporadical Initiative. She is a Certified Digital Marketing Professional, foodie and avid traveller.
