The Department of Cultural Heritage has announced its upcoming Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Core Knowledge Transfer Camp for 2026, scheduled to run from Monday, July 27th to Friday, July 31st. This initiative, themed “Learn, Create, Keep Our Culture Alive,” aims to foster a connection with the island’s heritage among young people. The camp will be held at the St. Johnson’s Community Centre in Basseterre.
Camp Details and Registration
The ICH Knowledge Transfer Camp is specifically designed for children and teenagers aged 8 to 16 years. Registration is open until Thursday, July 23rd, 2026. The fee for participation is $45. Interested parents and guardians must register their children in person at the Department of Cultural Heritage office, located on Victoria Road near the Leonie James preschool. For any inquiries regarding the registration process or the camp itself, individuals can contact the department at 467-1916.
The daily schedule for the camp will run from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. Lunch will be provided to all participants each day. The camp is being hosted under the auspices of the Ministry of Creative Economy, Employment, and Culture.
Focus on Folklore Traditions and Hands-On Learning
This year’s camp places a significant emphasis on Folklore Traditions and Accessories, with the goal of helping children maintain a strong connection to the island’s cultural roots through engaging and interactive activities. Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn the traditional craft of creating various cultural artifacts.
Specific Craft Skills to be Taught:
- Masquerade costume elements
- Bull Horn designs
- Gubby Mask creation
- Mummies Head pieces
- Mocko Jumble Stilts construction
Beyond the practical workshops, the camp will feature a diverse range of interactive experiences. These include classroom presentations that delve into cultural history, lively cultural discussions, expert demonstrations showcasing traditional techniques, and performance sessions where participants can share what they have learned.
Daily Thematic Approach
To ensure a comprehensive learning experience, each day of the 4-day camp is dedicated to a specific folklore tradition. Under the guidance of experienced cultural practitioners, attendees will not only learn about these traditions but also actively participate in practical sessions, gaining hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of their cultural significance.
Importance of Intangible Cultural Heritage
Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) refers to the practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities, groups, and sometimes individuals recognize as part of their cultural heritage. This heritage, transmitted from generation to generation, is constantly recreated by communities in response to their environment, their history, and their encounters with other cultures. It provides communities with a sense of identity and continuity, contributing to cultural diversity and human creativity.
The ICH Core Knowledge Transfer Camp plays a vital role in safeguarding this heritage. By engaging young people in traditional crafts and cultural practices, the camp ensures that these elements are not lost but are instead revitalized and passed on to future generations. This proactive approach helps to maintain the unique cultural landscape of the island and fosters a sense of pride and ownership among its youth.
Broader Ministry Objectives
The Ministry of Creative Economy, Employment, and Culture, under the leadership of Minister Samal Duggins, is committed to nurturing and promoting the creative and cultural sectors. Initiatives like the ICH Knowledge Transfer Camp align with the ministry’s broader objectives of fostering cultural awareness, supporting traditional artisans, and creating opportunities for creative expression and economic development within the cultural sphere. By investing in the younger generation’s understanding and appreciation of their cultural heritage, the ministry aims to build a stronger, more culturally vibrant future.
Conclusion
The 2026 ICH Knowledge Transfer Camp represents a valuable opportunity for young individuals to connect with their cultural roots, learn traditional skills, and contribute to the preservation of their heritage. The hands-on activities, expert guidance, and thematic approach promise an enriching experience that will help keep the island’s culture alive for years to come.
