CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE INTEGRATION OF INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS AND PRACTICES INTO THE CURRICULUM: A NARRATIVE INQUIRY

Abstract

Indigenous Peoples' Education (IPEd) has gained recognition worldwide as a means to empower Indigenous communities, promote cultural preservation, and enhance educational outcomes. This study explored the challenges and opportunities in integrating Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) and traditional wisdom into the curriculum of Indigenous education programs in DepEd Esperanza III, Sultan Kudarat during the school year 2024-2025. Using a qualitative research design and narrative inquiry approach, fifteen teachers from selected Indigenous Peoples (IP) schools participated in semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data.Results revealed that developing culturally relevant curriculum materials incorporating IKS presents both challenges and opportunities. Key challenges include the need for culturally sensitive materials, difficulties accessing skilled personnel, and issues related to language barriers and translation. Balancing curriculum standardization with the flexibility required to integrate IKS was also identified as a challenge. Opportunities, however, emerged through community engagement, collaboration with elders, and teacher training initiatives to ensure cultural authenticity in materials and teaching practices.The study highlighted that integrating IKS into the curriculum requires a multifaceted approach involving contextualization, cultural sensitivity, language preservation, and community collaboration. This approach not only ensures academic rigor but also empowers students to preserve their heritage. Teachers, despite facing resource limitations and insufficient support, demonstrated commitment to authentic IKS integration through collaboration with elders and continuous professional development.The integration of IKS has profound impacts on students’ cultural identity, academic achievement, and emotional well-being. By connecting students to their heritage and fostering academic success, IKS integration provides a holistic educational experience that strengthens students' sense of self. Recommendations include allocating funds for culturally sensitive curriculum materials, promoting teacher training, and strengthening partnerships with Indigenous communities to ensure the successful integration of IKS in education. Keywords: Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Curriculum Integration, Narrative Inquiry, Cultural Education, & Educational Challenges and Opportunities