The Minister of Science and Technology, Mrs Naledi Pandor, and the Premier of Limpopo, Mr Cassel Mathale, will open the Indigenous Knowledge System (IKS) Expo at 09h00 on 3 November 2009.
The expo will run from 3 to 6 November 2009 at Bolivia Lodge in Polokwane.
Through the expo themed “Indigenous ways of knowing work,” the Department of Science and Technology hopes to showcase and raise public awareness and understanding of, indigenous knowledge systems in South Africa.
The expo will demonstrate richness in biodiversity and the use of medicinal plants, as well as different methods of propagating common medicinal plants found only in Limpopo.
The event will bring together innovators and crafters to demonstrate the economic value of products based on indigenous knowledge and technology, and showcase the competitiveness of such products/technologies on the global market.
For example, ceramicists from Limpopo will display their products. Although ceramic crafts are not unique to South Africa, various groups in South Africa have developed distinct graphic designs that are unique to their particular communities.
The expo will also give universities a platform to promote the various higher education opportunities in the field of IKS, and provide prospective students with information on available courses and loan facilities.
The event is expected to attract scientists, IKS experts, people who hold indigenous knowledge and who practice in this area, as well as students and communities, who will deliberate issues affecting the affirmation, development and protection of IKS in South Africa.
Besides the Office of the Premier of Limpopo, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has organised the expo in partnership with several government departments, including the Departments of Trade and Industry and of Mining, the Medical Research Council, Mintek, the South African Women in Mining Association, and the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Research Chair in Indigenous Health Care Systems.
For further information please contact:
Veronica Mohapeloa
Tel: 012 843 6788
Cell: 082 882 3818
E-mail: veronica.mohapeloa@dst.gov.za
Phuti Mosomane
Tel: 015 287 6083
Cell: 082 729 2783
E-mail: mosomanep@premier.limpopo.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Science and Technology
28 October 2009
