TUKTOYAKTUK (February 14, 2012) -- A traditional sealskin kayak constructed by the students of the Mangilaluk School is the newest display at the Tuktoyaktuk airport.

Construction took place over the past several months and local Tuktoyatuk resident Darrel Nasogaluak led the project. Mr. Nasogaluak is a strong supporter of incorporating traditional knowledge into local schools and taught the students how to build the kayak using traditional tools and materials.

“I am pleased to see a significant and growing interest from youth around the territory in traditional projects and activities such as kayak-making,” said Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment, David Ramsay. “I want to congratulate the high school students at the Mangilaluk School for their hard work completing the kayak, and a special thanks to Darrel Nasogaluak. I look forward to my next visit to Tuktoyaktuk to see it for myself.”

This initiative took place through the Take a Kid Trapping program. The program introduces NWT youth to the traditional harvesting practices of hunting, trapping, fishing and outdoor survival. In 2011/12, the Take a Kid Trapping program hosted 49 projects in regions throughout the NWT, with over 2200 youth participants.

The program is delivered through schools and Aboriginal organizations and administered by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment in co-operation with the Departments of Municipal and Community Affairs and Environment and Natural Resources.

For more information, contact:

Alayna Ward
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
867-920-8696