CULTURAL GEOGRAPHY AND INDIGENOUS EDUCATION: INTEGRATING TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND CURRICULUM

Abstract [English]

Indigenous populations, characterized by their native, aboriginal origins and shared lifestyles within their specific geographical regions, possess a wealth of traditional knowledge. This encompasses a variety of forms such as spiritual, verbal, cultural, and practical knowledge, all rooted in community practices. Indigenous knowledge plays a crucial role in numerous human activities including healthcare, food preservation, child-rearing, education, natural resource management, and risk mitigation. Recognized as "social capital," this knowledge is increasingly valued as intellectual property, offering significant insights into global challenges like disease, famine, ethical conflicts, and poverty. Its relevance extends beyond the cultures in which it originated, providing scientists and planners with innovative solutions to communal issues. Development professionals highly regard this local wisdom for its efficacy in addressing complex problems in health, agriculture, education, and environmental management across both developed and developing nations. This research paper delves into the interplay between cultural geography and Indigenous education, with a particular emphasis on integrating traditional knowledge into contemporary curricula. By examining both historical and modern perspectives, the study underscores the pivotal role of cultural geography in developing educational practices that respect and incorporate Indigenous heritage. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and illustrative case studies, the paper identifies the challenges and opportunities inherent in blending traditional ecological knowledge with formal education systems.