Staff Reporter
THE Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), in collaboration with the UNESCO Chair in Digital Technology Design with Indigenous People, hosted the Ecology Custodianship Day at N/a’anKuse Lodge in the Khomas Region under the theme: “Custodians of Ecology: Shared World, Shared Futures.”
The event was officiated by Vice President of the Republic of Namibia, Her Excellency Lucia Witbooi, who, in her keynote address, highlighted Namibia’s recognition of the importance of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) for cultural preservation, biodiversity, ecological resilience, health, and sustainable development as a UNESCO member state.
Photos: Ministry of Education Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture
Speaking on behalf of Hon. Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture Sanet Steenkamp, Lovisa Immanuel, Director of Research and Innovation, emphasised the significance of the day. “It is a moment in our shared effort to recognise, safeguard, and integrate Indigenous Knowledge Systems within national development,” she said.
Immanuel further said that the National Indigenous Knowledge Systems Policy is in its final review under the leadership of the National Commission on Research, Science and Technology, reflecting extensive consultations with indigenous communities across all regions.
The event drew participation from local senior officials as well as international guests from Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Canada, Malaysia, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa.
