The Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Professor ‘Ayo Clement Adebooye, has called for the integration of indigenous practices into modern climate adaptation strategies to achieve environmental sustainability.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2024 International Sustainable Development Dialogue, organized by the university’s Global Affairs and Sustainable Development Institute (GASDI), Professor Adebooye emphasized the critical role that indigenous knowledge plays in climate change adaptation and sustainable development. The event was held at the Olagunsoye Oyinlola Auditorium, Main Campus, Osogbo.
Addressing this year’s theme, “Harnessing Indigenous Knowledge for Climate Change Adaptation and Sustainable Development,” the Vice-Chancellor underscored the urgency of incorporating traditional practices into modern climate strategies.
“Indigenous communities have developed a profound understanding of their environments through centuries of observations and cultural traditions. Their sustainable land management practices, biodiversity conservation strategies, and resource utilization methods are invaluable assets in our global fight against climate change,” stated Professor Adebooye.
He highlighted African indigenous knowledge as a “treasure trove of wisdom” essential for climate change adaptation and sustainable development. “By respecting and valuing indigenous knowledge, we can foster innovative solutions that bridge traditional wisdom and modern science, paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future,” he added.
In his keynote address titled “When the Earth Strikes Back: Indigenous Knowledge and Sustainability,” Professor Jacob Kehinde Olupona, a distinguished Professor of African and African American Studies at Harvard University, echoed the Vice-Chancellor’s views. He advocated for a fusion of scientific and indigenous knowledge to address climate change issues and urged policymakers to adopt implementable policies. He also encouraged researchers to move beyond theoretical approaches to what he termed “engaged scholarship.”
The Royal Father of the Day, the Orangun of Oke Ila, HRM Oba (Dr.) Adedokun Omowumi Abolarin, Aroyinkeye I, in his remarks, urged researchers to intensify their efforts in investigating and documenting indigenous knowledge. He argued that such knowledge can be exported to promote African culture, particularly Yoruba culture.
Earlier, the Osun State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Mayowa Adejorin, in his address, urged the people of Osun State to abandon harmful practices that damage the environment and pose a threat to sustainability.
