Presently, traditional knowledge has occupied an important space in global discourse as people have began to understand its contribution in decision-making at grass-root level, planning and applied research. Skepticism and modernists’ dismissal of its potential has failed to push it into oblivion rather it is poised to regain its lost glory, said, Dr Feleke Woldeyes in his speech. Click here to see the pictures.
Former AMU President and Deputy Director General of Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, Dr Feleke, said it while delivering a lecture on ‘Traditional Ecological Knowledge,’ recently at Abaya Campus. He further adds, the two global knowledge systems, traditional and modern draw strength from each other.
On present scenario, he said admitting, ‘‘Traditional knowledge is in a piquant situation, on one hand its relevance is being legitimized at global forum in the context of climate change, biodiversity etc. because they have recognized its worth in shaping up climate change resilient environment.
He informed presently, it has become an important global issue that offers fertile ground for research. Moreover, it’s a significant tool to get local knowledge crystallized. Similarly, equitable benefit-sharing of resources will be a win-win situation both for the stakeholders and end-users.
‘‘Even interest of professionals studying and interpreting is growing, but globalization and growing urbanization have made people to move away from it, a bad trend that might erode this age-old system. There are some contributing factors like policy makers, education and modern religious system those allegedly object to its usage. In past 100 years, situation was worse, but now it’s improving,’’ he said.
Agreeing to the idea of making it as an alternative form of study, he said, ‘‘As of now no attention has been given; yes, awareness is dawning upon masses but that too is in its infancy. Another discouraging factor is people’s disregard that gets reflected in all sectors, hope in future there will be a change.’’
‘‘Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute has set the precedence by recognizing traditional healers; we involve them in discussions.’’ He informed about a legislation concerning rights to access to benefit arising from local resources. So products originating from any region based on local knowledge system, when sold in the market, people have the right to share its benefit.
On the way out, he suggested, ‘‘It’s good to start at policy makers’ level as they who guide and implement; particularly we have to mainstream it via feasible mechanism. We have to see to it that this sublime indigenous knowledge system doesn’t get wiped out otherwise it may take a worse turn.
The lecture was attended by all department heads, teachers and others. College of Natural Sciences Dean, Dr Alemayehu Hailemichael anchored the program.
(By Philips Joseph: Corporate Communication Directorate)