Exploring how modern sciences impede the development of indigenous knowledge (IK) [Ethno-science and Ethno-mathematics] in the Kavango East region: a case study

Abstract

The analysis of this research paper is drawn from theoretical framework that indicates the relationship between modern science and Indigenous Knowledge (IK) in their different environments. The focus of this study was to establish the relationship between modern science and indigenous knowledge (IK), particularly how modern science has become dominant over IK. This seems to have resulted in many IK systems becoming extinct and redundant. The significance of this study is to contribute to the existing scientific body of knowledge since there seems to be dearth of IK documented information. It also creates awareness on the existence of traditional methods and skills that were used and still being used in their livelihood. In addition, the research paper provides explanation on the importance of the IK in relation to modern science. In the same vein the research paper draws parallel lines among the ethno-sciences, ethno-ma-thematics and modern science. Since the paper focuses on ethno-sciences and ethno-mathematics, learning systems of imparting knowledge were meticulously investigated. This paper places IK at the center of the knowledge creation instead of being an obstacle to the development of contemporary science and mathematics.