Bridging Tradition and Innovation: Incorporating Indigenous Engineering Practices into Ghana’s Secondary School Curriculum

Francis, Kwateng and Wai Yie, Leong (2025) Bridging Tradition and Innovation: Incorporating Indigenous Engineering Practices into Ghana’s Secondary School Curriculum. INTI JOURNAL, 2025 (21). pp. 1-8. ISSN e2600-7320

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Official URL: https://intijournal.intimal.edu.my

Abstract

Despite the richness of Ghanaian Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), their absence in secondary school engineering education renders them irrelevant and uninspiring. This study explores incorporating IKS into Ghanaian second-cycle engineering curricula to advance cultural identity and contextual relevance. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected from students, instructors, curriculum developers, and local artisans through questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. Findings confirm broad support for integrating indigenous technologies like mud construction and kente weaving. Teachers and students emphasized scientific and mathematical foundations, while curriculum planners focused on compatibility with Ghana’s Common Core Programme. IKS is positioned as “local STEM,” enhancing student enthusiasm, cultural pride, and environmental responsibility. Issues of teacher preparation and resource limitations emerged, prompting calls for systemic reform. The study outlines a culturally responsive model of engineering education that bridges formal schooling and indigenous practice, calling for curriculum redesign, policy changes, and strong community collaboration.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Indigenous Knowledge, STEM Education, Curriculum, Innovation, Sustainability
Subjects:	L Education > L Education (General) L Education > LB Theory and practice of education L Education > LC Special aspects of education
Depositing User:	Unnamed user with email masilah.mansor@newinti.edu.my
Date Deposited:	06 Aug 2025 06:33
Last Modified:	06 Aug 2025 09:16
URI:	http://eprints.intimal.edu.my/id/eprint/2160

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