Bridging science and society: the integration of indigenous and scientific knowledge management
Muhammad Kazim Nur Sohad, Elisabetta Mafrolla
Abstract
Purpose This study aims to address the effective incorporation of indigenous knowledge (IK) and scientific knowledge (SK) within economic development strategies in emerging economies, with a particular focus on the agricultural sector in Bangladesh. The objective is to assess the integration of these knowledge systems to promote sustainability of development policies. Design/methodology/approach The research uses the Theory of Planned Behavior to evaluate the behavioral intention of farming stakeholders in the agricultural supply chain regarding the use of knowledge management (KM) as a tool for ensuring agricultural sustainability. An original dataset was collected through ad hoc questionnaires administered to farmers and their buyers and suppliers in rural Bangladesh. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data and investigate the relationships among variables. Findings The empirical analysis reveals that the synthesis of local IK and global SK through effective KM practices may promote agricultural sustainability. The results indicate that farmers and their stakeholders are willing to enact KM, as a crucial instrument for integrating these different sources of knowledge. Research limitations/implications The authors encourage donors, agencies and policymakers to rethink their development projects by emphasizing the value of local expertise, lived experiences and biodiversity. The findings underscore the necessity of integrating IK and SK into KM frameworks to ensure the sustainability of economic development initiatives in underdeveloped regions. Practical implications This research offers practical insights for policymakers to develop frameworks that incorporate both IK and SK in agricultural policies. It highlights the need for training programs that bridge traditional and modern practices, fostering collaboration among local communities, agricultural stakeholders and institutions. By integrating both knowledge systems, can improve resource management, enhance sustainability and support food security. The findings also encourage local decision-making processes, promoting resilience and adaptability in agricultural practices. Social implications This research blends anthropological insights and managerial strategies, demonstrating how integrating IK with SK can foster sustainable agricultural practices. It promotes local empowerment, respects cultural values and encourages more effective, context-sensitive knowledge management approaches, bridging the gap between theory and practice in development. Originality/value This paper contributes to the existing literature by proposing a coherent framework for integrating IK and SK through KM. It highlights the importance of local contexts in development strategies and offers insights that can inform better policy-making in emerging economies, particularly in the agricultural sector.