South African indigenous knowledge is precious, and few people are better qualified than North-West University (NWU) alumnus, Dr Thulisile Bhuda, to contribute to preserving it.

This explains why Dr Bhuda has been reappointed to the Indigenous Knowledge / Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) National Authentication Panel.

She will serve on the panel until 2027, following her initial appointment in 2021.

“This appointment acknowledges the work I am doing in promoting South Africa’s indigenous knowledge systems and preserving cultural heritage,” says Dr Bhuda, who started serving on the panel while pursuing her PhD.

The panel advises the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture on safeguarding indigenous knowledge. Its responsibilities include adjudicating the authenticity of indigenous knowledge items for the national inventory, identifying elements at risk of disappearing, and facilitating consultations between communities and government to ensure protection.

Dr Bhuda, a lecturer in culture and heritage studies at the University of Mpumalanga, completed her PhD in indigenous knowledge systems at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus. Her research focused on the origins of mathematical concepts in Ndebele artifacts. Her master’s study explored Ndebele ethnomathematics, highlighting the use of symmetrical geometry in beadwork and mural art.

Her expertise extends to African metallurgy, African ethnomathematics, and African cosmology and metaphysics. She continues to advocate for the recognition of indigenous knowledge systems within academic and policy frameworks.

Her reappointment until 2027 is expected to contribute to efforts in preserving South Africa’s cultural heritage while ensuring that indigenous knowledge remains central to national policy discussions.

Dr Thulisile Bhuda.