The ICIK is one of 25 resource centers that bring educators, sociologists, economists, agriculturists and others together to increase and improve the study and understanding of indigenous or native knowledge systems around the world, since they are often endangered. We are trying through the ICIK to integrate the indigenous knowledge system with western knowledge without devaluing one or the other. Alternative or indigenous medicine such as acupuncture and herbalism, long considered far out of the western medical mainstream, are now gaining recognition and popularity. A recent university study revealed that one in three Americans use alternative therapies for major medical problems. Business and finance also can be indigenous, according to Vernis Welmon, assistant dean in The Smeal College of Business Administration and a conference presenter.
Esusu members pool their money and each member takes a turn drawing from the accumulation.
We must document this knowledge before it disappears. This page was created by Annemarie Mountz . Last updated April 17, 1996.