Teaching (With) Medical Ethnobiology: Indigenous Knowledge System Found In Raji People of Western Nepal

This ethnobiological study aims to document and discuss original knowledge that local people develop based on the climate, local ecology, culture, and tradition in order to sustain their society. An ethnobiological survey on Raji people was conducted in Uttarganga village of Surkhet in Western Nepal with a view to understanding what medicinal, animal and plant species the Raji community uses for treating different ailments, thereby exploring the traditional indigenous knowledge practiced by them. Data were collected through interviews with key informants (Dhami, Jhakri, and Gurau) and through group discussions. The study revealed that the Raji community has deep respect for its indigenous knowledge, such as biodiversity conservation, agricultural practice, medicinal practices for livelihood, yeast making practices, and art, craft, and technology. The implications of their worldview are then discussed within the context of higher education. In particular, we highlight the possibilities of using research like this to rethink curricula and pedagogy, as well as research and scholarship about higher education.