Renowned Fijian researcher Dr. Salanieta Kitolelei advocates for the distinct recognition of indigenous, traditional, and local knowledge systems to craft inclusive and effective resource management and cultural preservation strategies. As a PhD graduate from the University of the South Pacific, Dr. Kitolelei underscores the detrimental impact of conflating these terms, which leads to misunderstandings in policy-making and limits community participation in significant decision-making processes. Her studies particularly underscore the crucial role of fisher knowledge in ensuring sustainable fisheries management in Fiji.
Dr. Kitolelei elaborates that local knowledge is derived from personal experiences, traditional knowledge is a communal legacy, and indigenous knowledge is specific to cultural groups, deeply rooted in customs and practices. The lack of precise differentiation hampers the effective integration of these knowledge systems into national policies. She stresses that understanding these distinctions is vital for advancing policy and management frameworks that genuinely involve communities from the ground up. Moreover, she emphasizes the importance of safeguarding intangible cultural treasures, such as age-old fishing techniques, through the protection of intellectual property rights.
Echoing Dr. Kitolelei’s views, Simione Sevudredre, founder of Sau Vaka Culture Consultancy, calls for a revival of indigenous knowledge in Fiji. He points to the erosion of cultural traditions due to colonization and the modern focus on Western education frameworks. Sevudredre highlights the pivotal role of preserving indigenous languages, as they are intrinsic to maintaining traditional knowledge. He cautions that modern conveniences often supplant traditional practices, potentially jeopardizing cultural identity, and emphasizes the necessity of preserving indigenous knowledge at the community level.
The perspectives shared by Dr. Kitolelei and Mr. Sevudredre resonate with ongoing discussions in Fiji about embedding traditional knowledge within educational and policy frameworks. The objective is to cultivate a society that honors its heritage while adeptly addressing existing challenges. By embracing indigenous knowledge, Fiji stands to boost environmental stewardship and cultural cohesion, thereby paving the way for a sustainable future. Such integration is anticipated to enhance community resilience and empower future generations to navigate ecological and societal challenges, offering an optimistic trajectory for Fiji’s growth and sustainability.