RONO HILLS, Feb 27: A two-day national seminar on "Reviving and Reimagining Indigenous Knowledge Traditions in Contemporary Discourses" began at Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) on Wednesday.
Organized by the Department of English in a blended mode, the seminar brings together scholars and researchers from across the country to deliberate on strategies for preserving indigenous knowledge systems and their relevance in modern discourse.
The seminar was inaugurated with a welcome address by head of the department of English, KC Mishra, followed by remarks from seminar convenor, associate professor Doyir Ete, who highlighted the importance of reorienting perspectives on indigenous knowledge traditions.
Ete emphasized that such discussions contribute to uncovering and preserving rich cultural heritage.
Vice-chancellor (in-charge) of RGU, SK Nayak, who chaired the inaugural session, underscored the need for documentation of indigenous narratives to ensure that the knowledge and wisdom they contain are preserved for future generations. He expressed confidence that the seminar would bring critical aspects of indigenous knowledge systems to the forefront.
The keynote address was delivered by Debarshi Prasad Nath, former Head of the Department of Cultural Studies at Tezpur University, Assam. Speaking on "Using Indigenous Knowledge Tradition in Our Times: Prospects and Challenges," Nath highlighted the value of traditional practices in addressing contemporary issues arising from neo-liberal policies. He cited classical texts and indigenous traditions as potential solutions for sustainable development and ecological balance.
Dean of the Faculty of Languages at RGU, S.S. Singh, commended the initiative and noted that indigenous wisdom holds relevance for all communities. The seminar will continue on Thursday, with a plenary talk by Indranil Acharya, former Head of the Department of English Literature, Language, and Cultural Studies at Vidyasagar University, West Bengal. Acharya is scheduled to speak on "Language Revitalization through Translation of Endangered Indigenous Languages: A Study."
The event was attended by deans, heads of departments, faculty members, research scholars, and students from various disciplines. Assistant Professor Bompi Riba, co-convenor of the seminar, delivered the vote of thanks.