Integrating Indigenous Knowledge into Academic Pursuits of FAS

Heritage Day has grown to embrace diverse concepts for various people, but these notions share a few similarities. As such, the Faculty of Applied Sciences (FAS) celebrated the day by “showcasing Indigenous Knowledge and its integration to Academic Pursuits of the FAS” at Bellville Campus.

Numerous presentations on different topics from different fields were provided, Prof Jessy Van Wyk and Melissa Rossouw made a presentation on the Indigenous Knowledge Documentation Centre. Dr Vusi Mshayisa and Tina Bebe from the Food Science and Technology Department talked about how edible insects, such as Mopani worms, madzhulu, and thongolifa, are not only a traditional delicacy in parts of South Africa but also a powerhouse of nutrition.

Rich in protein, essential minerals, and amino acids, they stated that these insects offer a sustainable alternative to conventional protein sources. In addition to new novel insects such as mealworms, crickets, and black soldier fly, they said the Department of Food Science and Technology focuses on exploring the nutritional, structural, sensorial, and techno-functional properties of these insects, highlighting their potential to contribute significantly to food security.

Dr Kanyisa Maqashu from the Chemistry Department made her presentation on the extinction of plant species, including fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, which endangers global health and sustainability. “Human activities have reduced seed diversity, increasing reliance on hybrid crops and limiting access to natural remedies and nutritious food. To combat this, we must blend indigenous knowledge with modern science through collaborative efforts to preserve indigenous plant species, integrate traditional ecological wisdom with sustainability practices, and develop holistic healthcare approaches,” Maqashu stated in her presentation.

Sibusiso Xego from the Horticultural Sciences Department talked about enhancing sustainable cultivation and use of medicinal plants through collaborative partnerships with Western Cape traditional healers and small-scale farmers. Athembile Centane and Nkcubeko Masents from Biotechnology and Consumer Sciences provided information on the scientific validation of anecdotal claims in Indigenous health remedies.

William Manamela from the Mathematics and Physics Department made a presentation on Indigenous knowledge in Mathematics. The Conservation and Marine Science Department also made a presentation on Guardians of the Ocean: A Tale of Tradition and Science.

Language Coordinator: Faculty of Applied Science, Dr Ignatius Khan Ticha, facilitated a panel discussion on Perspectives on the integration of Indigenous knowledge in the curriculum and language practices at CPUT.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: boyceap@cput.ac.za