The Hawaiʻi Papa o ke Ao Native Hawaiian Place of Learning Advancement Office is inviting University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa faculty and staff to join its newest professional development experience, Cohort Waikolu. The five-day sessions are designed to strengthen understanding of Hawaiian values, history and perspectives, while helping campus units become more reflective of Hawaiʻi in their work and planning.
“This opportunity brings our campus vision off the page and into practice,” said Kawehi Goto, interim program officer. “It’s about learning together, strengthening pilina, and shaping plans to help fulfill our kuleana to Hawaiʻi and the world.”
Cohort Waikolu, meaning three waters, is the third cohort in the series, following Kumukahi and Kaulua. The chosen name honors the three streams that once flowed through Waikīkī before the construction of the Ala Wai Canal, symbolizing connection and flow between land, people and place.
Unified learning journey
The next sessions begin in January 2026, with three options to participate in March, August, or October. A wide range of units are taking or have taken part in this year’s cohorts including athletics, Hawaiian studies, law, sustainability and various members of UH leadership.
One participant reflected in a survey, “there were many meaningful ‘aha’ moments, and I was pleasantly surprised to discover how many Native Hawaiian values and principles resonate with those from my own cultural heritage. Seeing these values thoughtfully applied within a university context offered a refreshing and inspiring perspective.”
Attendees take part in immersive activities such as mapping moʻokūʻauhau, mālama ʻāina, oli and pilina circles in an effort to foster community and purpose.
Anyone who has not previously participated can sign up online or email: nhpol@hawaii.edu.
