Building on ongoing efforts to enhance the documentation and sharing of African indigenous knowledge, North West University (NWU) and the Africa PID Alliance (APA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance the integration of indigenous knowledge systems into the digital research ecosystem.
This collaboration leverages North West University’s indigenous and cultural knowledge systems and APA’s specialization in persistent identifier systems to create a comprehensive framework for documenting, preserving, and sharing indigenous knowledge. Central to this initiative is Digital Object Identifier Container (DOCID™), which will be integrated into North West University’s research and archival systems to enhance the management of indigenous knowledge.
Speaking on the partnership Joy Owango, Project Lead at the Africa PID Alliance, emphasized the critical role of DOCID™ in addressing challenges related to knowledge management and discovery. She stated, “DOCID™ provides a structured and persistent way of identifying and linking indigenous knowledge assets, ensuring they are not only preserved but also easily accessible within global research networks. This system helps prevent loss and misappropriation, while also giving rightful recognition to the communities and knowledge holders who contribute to Africa’s rich intellectual heritage.”
“The partnership between the North-West University Library and Information Service (NWU LIS) and the Africa PID Alliance marks a significant step in preserving and sharing NWU’s indigenous knowledge. By integrating the DOCID™ system into our research and archival processes, we are ensuring that this invaluable knowledge is not only safeguarded but also made accessible to global research networks as part of our ongoing efforts to promote open science. This collaboration reflects our commitment to preserving and advancing NWU’s intellectual heritage for the benefit of future generations, “ remarked Veliswa Tshetsha, Director: Research & Open Scholarship, North-West University Library and Information Service (LIS)
As the Africa PID Alliance (APA) continues to collaborate with institutions across Africa, the integration of persistent identifier systems like DOCID™ is shaping a future where African knowledge is globally visible, and properly attributed. The success of this initiative at North West University (NWU) will contribute to broader efforts in advancing digital research infrastructure, and supporting the long-term preservation of Africa’s intellectual heritage.