Students from Benin, Corsica France, Ghana and Nigeria came together during this UNESCO Campus to explore key global issues. The central topics was Indigenous Peoples, their knowledge and in what way could it be preserved and passed on through generations. Students had the opportunity to exchange ideas with experts on the connections between knowledge, culture and language. This session was organized with the support of Huawei’s TECH4ALL initiative and in collaboration with 6C-Conseil.
Indigenous Knowledge and Its Importance
Indigenous Peoples are descendants of the original inhabitants of a territory. While there is no single legal definition, the UN describes them as communities with distinct cultures and institutions. As explained by Khalissa Ikhlef, Program specialist for UNESCO’s Local and Indigenous Knowledge Systems (LINKS) Programme, they are also knowledge holders and innovators, playing an essential role in preserving biodiversity and natural ecosystems.
Indigenous knowledge is built through generations of observation and experience, developed through close interaction with nature and ecosystems over time. It is holistic in nature, meaning it does not separate culture from the environment but sees them as deeply interconnected. It is passed down orally and through practice, including land management, fishing, and biodiversity conservation.
Khalissa Ikhlef emphasized that this knowledge is recognized as essential for addressing environmental challenges. It contributes to biodiversity protection, informs better policies, and strengthens respect for cultural diversity. However, she also noted that Indigenous knowledge is at risk due to loss, misinterpretation, and insufficient integration into education systems.
Empowering Indigenous Languages in the Digital Age
The discussions focused on the role of technology and education in preserving Indigenous knowledge. Audrey-Maud Perreault a consultant supporting UNESCO’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022–2032) highlighted how digital tools can help document languages and traditions, with Indigenous youth already developing mobile applications to share knowledge. However, she indicated that technology must be used ethically, with clear respect for ownership and cultural protocols.
Many Indigenous languages are disappearing, but digital platforms, speech technologies, and online learning can support their preservation. Still, she underlined that true preservation depends on community control and participation. Both experts believe that Indigenous Peoples must be involved from the beginning of any initiative by ensuring they remain owners of their data, knowledge, and cultural heritage.
The UNESCO Campus ended with a clear message that Indigenous knowledge, education, and technology should work together to create a more inclusive and sustainable future, encouraging students to participate actively.
READ MORE: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/indigenous-knowledge-digital-age-learning-preserving-sharing?hub=701
