Incorporating Indigenous Knowledge Systems into the Teaching of Environmental Chemistry

This research explores the integration of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) into the teaching of Environmental Chemistry at the secondary and tertiary levels. The study investigates how traditional ecological knowledge, accumulated over centuries by Indigenous communities, can enhance students’ understanding of environmental processes, sustainability, and stewardship. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from teachers, students, and Indigenous knowledge holders across multiple regions. The findings reveal that incorporating IKS not only improves engagement and contextual understanding but also promotes respect for cultural diversity and environmental ethics. The study provides pedagogical frameworks and strategies for effective curriculum integration and recommends policy reforms to institutionalize the inclusion of IKS in science education.