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Article Title:
Decolonizing the Social Sciences: Integrating Indigeneous Knowledge for Sustainable Development
by Prof. Benjamin Gowon Ahule & Josephine Oragbai

Abstract:
This study explores the integration of Indigenous knowledge systems into the social sciences, with a focus on sustainable development. It critically examines the historical marginalization of Indigenous knowledge within Western-driven development paradigms and argues for a decolonisation of the social sciences to foster more inclusive, context-specific, and culturally appropriate solutions to global challenges. Through a decolonial theoretical framework, the study examines how Indigenous knowledge systems, rooted in ecological balance, resource management, and community resilience, can contribute to sustainable development goals (SDGs). By highlighting the limitations of mainstream development approaches and the ecological, cultural, and social benefits of Indigenous knowledge, this study advocates for its integration into development frameworks to achieve more sustainable and equitable outcomes. The paper underscores the importance of epistemic disobedience and the need for a shift in power dynamics within knowledge production; and concludes by proposing actionable steps for integrating Indigenous knowledge into development policies, ensuring that future development is not only economically viable but also socially just and ecologically sustainable.

Keywords: Indigenous Knowledge, Sustainable Development, Decolonisation, Social Sciences, Decolonial Theory, Development Paradigms, Epistemic Disobedience, Global Challenges, Sustainability, SDGs

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