Abstract:

Indigenous peoples have begun a re-conceptualization of educational processes, emphasizing indigenous languages, spiritual beliefs, values, community involvement and connection to land, territories and resources. However, the process of achieving systemic change in education-related legislation and governance, human resources, curricula, materials and assessment, based on indigenous goals and aspirations, requires time, effort and resources. Hence, there is a critical need both for national and international support and for capacity-building to ensure that academics and professionals, especially among indigenous peoples, can act as leaders in effecting this significant paradigm shift. Finally, it is important to note that even in those regions where intercultural bilingual education is progressing, this is considered a matter of concern for indigenous peoples only. The conviction that every learner should be taught about all the cultures and languages that make up the national heritage, in order to promote understanding and tolerance, has yet to be mainstreamed across most national educational systems.