Micronesia education was initially more or less imparted informally. The coming of the European colonizers heralded the beginning of a formal westernized system of education. Education in Micronesia is now no longer imparted in the native language and the medium of instruction is now English. popularity of the indigenous languages gradually started waning.
National holidays, as well as different religious observances are widely celebrated on the islands. Liberation day, which is observed yearly on September 11, commemorates the victory of the US over Japan in WWII. On the island of Pohnpei, this is preceded by an entire week of traditional parties and sports events.
Many of the skills required for the production of indigenous graphic art in the FSM have been lost. Canoe carving, once a highly evolved and valued art form, is largely forgotten among the young men who prefer to fish from fiberglass out-board motorboats.