In his article 'The Monitor: an instrument for networking' Guus von Liebenstein argues that the Indigenous Knowledge and Development Monitor is an indispensable instrument for active networking. The publication of articles on indigenous knowledge, however, should not be limited to the Monitor.
It is heartening to note that an increasing number of journals and newsletters are directing attention to the potential contribution of indigenous knowledge to new paradigms for sustainable development. The editorial board would be most grateful if copies of such articles and other pieces could be sent to the editor.
Your comments on the ideas and opinions expressed in the Monitor are likewise most welcome. Your response will enable the Monitor to function as it was intended to: as a platform for debate and the exchange of ideas and visions. So please let us hear from you! A good start might be your reaction to the statement by Pamela Fernandez that 'Researchers and development workers should not immediately join in projects for the documentation of indigenous knowledge, as this could eventually lead to the disempowerment of local people'.
In May 1994 a questionnaire was sent to all registered readers, in order to collect information on the ability of readers to pay for a subscription to the Monitor. The results of this survey are published in the article by Guus von Liebenstein. Please note that if you do not return your questionnaire, you will not receive the coming issues of the Monitor.
Contrary to instructions, our mailing agent sent the first 1994 edition of the Monitor (2(1)) by surface mail. Fortunately, we were able to send a reprint by air mail. This means that all readers except those in Europe, the United States and Canada have received their copies by airmail as well as surface mail. Please let us know if you have not received your copy of the Monitor 2(1).
The next issue of the Monitor, which will be published in
December 1994, is a special issue on the indigenous knowledge
of
women, and gender and indigenous knowledge. The editorial
board
is looking forward to receiving your contributions, in the
form
of articles and information, as soon as possible, and in any
case
before 1 November. Articles and information for the next
regular
issue which is planned for April 1995 are also welcome.