Launching of new multidisciplinary course on Traditional Knowledge Systems by KSC, Jotsoma on July 12. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | July 12
The Kohima Science College, Jotsoma (KSCJ) today launched a pioneering multidisciplinary course ‘Traditional Knowledge System (TKS),’ marking a significant milestone in the state's educational landscape.
This innovative course, the first of its kind ever aims to bridge the gap between modern education and the rich heritage of traditional wisdom of the Nagas.
The course has been designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse traditional knowledge systems that have been passed down through generations.
By integrating subjects such as Anthropology, Botany and Zoology, the curriculum offers a holistic approach to learning, encouraging students to appreciate and value the depth and relevance of traditional practices in today's world.
Prof Limatemjen Aier, Dean of Science, KSCJ, chaired the launching program and appraised on the concept of the new course, `Traditional Knowledge Systems’, which resulted from the collaboration with GIZ (The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), a German International Funding Agency.
Dr Wenyitso Kapfo, Head of Botany Department gave a brief outline of the syllabus, emphasizing on the importance of preserving and revitalizing traditional knowledge systems.
He highlighted on the need for the inclusion of traditional knowledge in mainstream education as it will offer invaluable insights into sustainable living, health, and community harmony and that this course will be an important pathway towards preserving cultural heritage and passing it on to future generations. He also mentioned that the syllabus was framed and designed by the three departments under the guidance of Dr Rajindra Puri, an Ethnobiologist and Senior Lecturer, University of Kent, UK and a consultant for GIZ.
The principal of Kohima Science College, Jotsoma, Dr Temjenwabang Longkumer officially launched the new multidisciplinary Course.
He said that the course fulfils the requirement of NEP 2020 Policy which stresses on the inclusion of the Indian knowledge system in the syllabus as mandated by the University Grants Commission.
He congratulated the three departments on successfully framing the new course and hoped that the course will be upgraded and introduced even at the PG level in the future, he also highlighted on the huge scope of research in this area of study. He hoped that other colleges and universities, at the national and International arena would adopt this course as well.
Students enrolled in the program will have the unique opportunity to engage with local communities, learning directly from elders and practitioners who are custodians of traditional knowledge.
This hands-on experience is designed to foster a deep respect and appreciation for the cultural and intellectual contributions of indigenous communities.
The multidisciplinary nature of the course ensures that students from various academic backgrounds can find relevance and application in their respective fields of study, according to Dr Richard Dzüvichu, president of Kohima Science College Teachers Association.
