In partnership with South African Agency for Science and Technology (SAASTA), a WSU team of researchers responsible for Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) is developing an educational documentary about the indigenous and historical artifacts displayed at the Cofimvaba Science Centre.
Made up of Chemistry Department Lecturer, Prof Adebola Oyedeji and Head of Anthropology Department, Dr Kholekile Ngqila, the duo’s exhibition at the centre displayed extensive areas of knowledge that ranged from the incorporation of traditional medicine into modern medicines, significant isiXhosa traditional beads and natural remedies which exclusively exist in the Eastern Cape.
“One of the most notable items we showcased is ‘isidanga’ which is usually bestowed upon males who have been tasked with bringing back (fetching) spirits of loved ones. We also showcased a ‘Faskoti’ for the waist and the other for the breasts, which are typically used by females to look beautiful,” she said.
In addition to these items is Prof Adebola Oyedeji’s two different herbal teas, Creation Nervine Tea and Creation Arthritis Tea, which are remedies infused with traditional medicinal plants that are used to relieve arthritis and can be used for the treatment of mental disorders. Also, there’s ‘Isinuka’ , a sacred waters said to have healing powers found in Port St John’s.
According to Ngqila, the vision for the WSU exhibition stand is to highlight the significance of traditional medicines in the advancement of sciences, while educating the community about the traditional Xhosa ways“Visitors were so excited about our stand, particularly the Department of Education, because the stand showcases an infusion of Afrocentric knowledge and Science, which is very important.” said Anthropology academic, Dr Kholekile Ngqila.
The science centre was a result of a partnership between Technology for Rural Education and Development (Tech4RED) project, the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the Department of Basic Education (DBE), the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) and the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform.
Certified as South Africa's first state-of-the-art center designed with green technologies, the center was unveiled in 2021 by Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, who named it after struggle icon Mama Albertina Sisulu.
Ngqila said, “It brings me great joy to see that people could be so impressed and excited to see a showcase of Indigenous Knowledge Systems. It brings me more joy that as a university we have pride ourselves in keeping traditions of the province alive.
By Ongezwa Sigodi
