Experts call for integrating indigenous wisdom in education, policy

A two-day national seminar on the theme “Tribals as Custodians of Tradition: Exploring the Naga Indigenous Knowledge System” began Monday at the ICFAI University Nagaland Auditorium. The event is jointly organised by the Departments of History and Political Science in collaboration with IQAC-IUN and sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Vulli Dhanaraju from the Department of History, North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, spoke on “Indigenous Onto-Epistemic Sympoiesis: Entangling with the More-Than-Human World.” Acknowledging his position as an “outsider,” he noted the challenges of situating indigenous knowledge within academic and theoretical frameworks.
Drawing insights from transdisciplinary paradigms such as native science, quantum physics, post-humanism, feminist science studies, and decolonizing methodologies, Prof. Dhanaraju sought to bridge oral traditions with contemporary theory. He introduced the concept of “onto-epistemic sympoiesis” — a collective and relational way of knowing — rooted in ethical engagement with the more-than-human world.
Arguing that indigenous epistemologies offer vital alternatives to Western thought, particularly in addressing ecological and cultural crises, he cited examples from Northeast India, including the Naga myth of man, tiger and spirit, the Khasi Living Root Bridges, Karbi cosmologies, and Assam’s Bihu festival. These, he said, embodied symbiotic resilience and ecological ethics essential for sustainable living.
Prof. Dhanaraju called for integrating indigenous methodologies in research and policymaking, emphasizing that oral traditions are not static relics but living systems central to sustainability, sovereignty, and cultural continuity. He urged scholars to foster solidarity, intercultural dialogue, and shared responsibility in reimagining a just and sustainable future inspired by indigenous wisdom.
Introducing the theme, Seminar Convenor and Assistant Professor Dr. Resenmenla Longchar said the seminar aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which stresses incorporating Indian knowledge systems into contemporary education.
She highlighted that tribal traditions of the Northeast hold deep ecological, medicinal, and spiritual wisdom that must be preserved amid globalization and climate change.
Earlier, ICFAI University Nagaland Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Saundarjya Borbora, in his inaugural address, underscored the importance of documenting oral traditions and integrating tribal customs into community life. He called for academic engagement, cultural revival, and value-based education to strengthen social cohesion and promote sustainability.
The inaugural programme was chaired by Dr. Kikarenla Jamir, with a welcome address by Dr. Kevizonuo Kuolie, invocation by Imnasangla Ao, and vote of thanks by Dr. J. Nukshimenla Lemtur. The seminar includes invited lectures, technical sessions, and cultural presentations, and will conclude with a valedictory session on Tuesday.