The Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) of the Built Environment UNIT, located within the School of Architecture, aims to broaden and strengthen existing engagement, research activities, and teaching learning offerings related to Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), with particular emphasis on the knowledge of KhoiSan communities. The UNIT seeks to position Indigenous knowledge as a critical and integral component of architectural discourse and practice, as well as of related disciplines within the built environment.

The UNIT functions as a dedicated intellectual and collaborative “space” for the sharing, documentation, co-creation, and dissemination of knowledge with and about IKS in Architecture and allied fields. Its work is primarily underpinned by a transformative participatory action research framework, which prioritises co-creation, mutual learning, and ethical engagement with Indigenous Knowledge Holders and their communities.

As UNIT we are at the service of those Indigenous communities who needs assistance to document their tangible and intangible heritage, to re write a decolonised narrative and history.

This initiative builds on the substantial community engagement and research undertaken by Professor Magda Minguzzi, who, since 2015, has developed strong, sustained collaborations and successful partnerships with KhoiSan Leaders and their communities. These long-term relationships provide a solid foundation of trust, reciprocity, and scholarly credibility upon which the UNIT’s activities are further developed.

The UNIT working group comprises Nelson Mandela University academics from multiple Schools and Departments, students at various levels of study, and Indigenous community members and leaders.