Abstract
The integration of indigenous knowledge with scientific knowledge has emerged as a key area of interest in various disciplines, including environmental management, agriculture, healthcare, and education. Indigenous knowledge, developed over centuries by Indigenous peoples and local communities, reflects a deep-rooted understanding of local ecosystems, sustainable practices, and holistic approaches to health and development. Meanwhile, scientific knowledge, often seen as more universal and formalized, contributes empirical methodologies and technological advancements. This systematic review explores the importance, challenges, and benefits of integrating these two knowledge systems. By reviewing relevant literature, this paper identifies pathways for successful integration, highlighting case studies from environmental conservation, agriculture, and healthcare that demonstrate the complementary strengths of indigenous and scientific knowledge. The paper concludes that integrating scientific and indigenous knowledge holds great promise for addressing global challenges. Despite obstacles like power disparities and differing epistemologies, effective integration can lead to a comprehensive and lasting solution that promotes equitable collaborations, protects intellectual property, and creates culturally appropriate frameworks. Collaborative research that treats indigenous populations as equal partners ensures innovations are both scientifically and culturally valid. Successful integration therefore requires frameworks sensitive to cultural differences and the social and spiritual aspects of indigenous knowledge, supported by legal and policy measures to safeguard and benefit from indigenous knowledge.
•Understanding IK helps planners use flexible, creative methods and avoid harming local ecology or culture in development projects.•Crop rotation, intercropping, and agroforestry are time-tested indigenous practices that support food security and climate resilience.•Integrating scientific and indigenous knowledge in healthcare enhances treatment effectiveness and ensures cultural relevance.•Integrating scientific and indigenous knowledge offers valuable solutions for global challenges in healthcare, agriculture, and conservation.•IK can act as a springboard for SK to be put in traditional communities for learning and growth.