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Decolonization by Indigenzing the Teaching of Medical Anthropology: The Use of African Indigenous Healing Knowledge and Transforming the Curriculum

Decolonization by Indigenzing the Teaching of Medical Anthropology: The Use of African Indigenous Healing Knowledge and Transforming the Curriculum
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Author(s): Hloniphile Talent Ndlovu (University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa)
Copyright: 2025
Pages: 22
Source title: Indigenous Teaching Disciplines and Perspectives for Higher Education
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Maserole Christina Kgari-Masondo (The University of South Africa, South Africa)
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3693-9296-6.ch002

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Abstract

This chapter explores the decolonization of the medical anthropology curriculum by integrating indigenous epistemologies and health practices. It critiques Eurocentric paradigms in medical education, advocating for the inclusion of culturally appropriate healing techniques like herbal medicine, spiritual healing, and communal health approaches to offer a more inclusive understanding of health. Highlighting the alienation caused by reliance on foreign languages and Western materials, the chapter underscores the importance of incorporating indigenous languages and perspectives to enhance student engagement and success. Practical strategies, including fieldwork with indigenous communities and oral histories, are proposed to indigenize education. By bridging traditional indigenous knowledge and modern medical practices, the chapter aims to advance decolonized, inclusive higher education.

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