ABOUT - NCIKS 2026

➤ Why this conference matters

The National Conference on Indigenous Knowledge Systems: An Intergenerational Dialogue on Knowledge Continuity is a timely national platform designed to recognize, revitalize, and reimagine the role of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in contemporary society. In an era dominated by rapid technological advancement and scientific specialization, many valuable indigenous practices—particularly those related to health, sustainability, social organization, and technology—remain underexplored or inadequately documented. This conference matters because it brings these knowledge systems into national academic and policy conversations, highlighting their relevance in addressing present-day challenges such as public health resilience, sustainable living, environmental stewardship, and culturally grounded innovation.

➤ What “indigenous knowledge systems” means

Indigenous Knowledge Systems refer to the accumulated wisdom, practices, beliefs, and skills developed by communities over generations through direct interaction with their environment, culture, and social structures. These systems encompass indigenous medicine, ecological management, social governance, craftsmanship, and technological adaptations that are deeply rooted in local contexts and lived experiences. Unlike conventional scientific knowledge, IKS is holistic, experiential, and community-centred, offering complementary perspectives to modern science and technology.

➤ Importance of intergenerational dialogue

A central feature of this conference is its emphasis on intergenerational dialogue. Knowledge continuity depends on meaningful exchange between elders, traditional practitioners, academics, researchers, and youth. By creating spaces where these groups can engage collaboratively, the conference ensures that indigenous wisdom is not only preserved but also adapted, revitalized, and transmitted to future generations in relevant and practical ways.

Purpose of the Conference

The primary purpose of this conference is to preserve and bring to light the hidden and underutilized knowledge embedded within Indigenous Knowledge Systems, while creating pathways for their meaningful integration into modern scientific, technological, and societal frameworks. By bringing together traditional knowledge holders, experienced academics, researchers, practitioners, and university students, the conference fosters interdisciplinary collaboration that bridges tradition and innovation.

Through its three thematic streams—Crystallizing Indigenous Medicine, Inspiring New Discoveries, Indigenous Knowledge for Sustainability, and Translating Tradition into Innovation—the conference aims to demonstrate how indigenous wisdom can contribute to advancements in healthcare, sustainable livelihoods, environmental management, and technology-driven solutions. A strong focus is placed on engaging university students, recognizing them as future researchers, policymakers, and innovators who will play a critical role in safeguarding and advancing indigenous knowledge.

Ultimately, the conference seeks to reposition Indigenous Knowledge Systems as living, dynamic resources that support sustainable development, culturally informed healthcare, and inclusive innovation, while strengthening knowledge continuity across generations and disciplines.

Target Audience

Traditional practitioners of Indigenous Medicine and healing systems, Indigenous Social Sciences and Technological innovations
Academics, researchers, and postgraduate/undergraduate students in relevant fields
Professionals from humanities, social sciences, environmental science, and technology
Innovators working on indigenous-based product development
Government officials in culture, heritage, health, and education sectors
NGOs and community leaders working on knowledge preservation
General public with an interest in cultural heritage and wellness traditions

Theme & Objectives

Theme: “Sustaining Indigenous Knowledge: Bridging Generations, Cultures, and Innovations”
Objectives:
To showcase the richness and diversity of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Sri Lanka.
To create a platform for dialogue between traditional knowledge holders and contemporary scholars.
To highlight pathways for integrating Indigenous knowledge with modern scientific and technological innovations.
To encourage youth engagement in safeguarding and revitalizing local knowledge systems.
To promote research collaborations, policy discussions, and institutional strengthening of indigenous knowledge fields.

Call for Papers

01^st January 2026

Paper Submission Deadline

30^th January 2026

Notification of Acceptance

07^th February 2026

Registration Deadline

10^th February 2026

Sending Invitations for the conference

20^th February 2026

Conference