Institute for Research on Biodiversity of the Nationalities and Peoples of Ecuador «Pachamamanta Kamak»
Intercultural research for the care of life and Sumak Kawsay
Introduction:
The Institute for Research on Biodiversity of the Nationalities and Peoples of Ecuador “Pachamamanta Kamak” (IIBPNEPK) is an intercultural, transdisciplinary, and community-based research unit, attached to the Vice-Rectorate for Community Management, Research, and Engagement with Society at the Amawtay Wasi Intercultural University. Our fundamental purpose is to strengthen the dialogue of knowledge between ancestral wisdom and contemporary science, in accordance with the Constitution of Ecuador, which recognizes the rights of nature, collective rights, and the principle of Sumak Kawsay as the foundations of harmonious relationships between peoples and Pachamama (Mother Earth).
From an intercultural perspective, we promote research methodologies and practices focused on the care, protection, and revitalization of biodiversity in its biocultural expressions. We understand Pachamama as a complex life system that requires inter- and transdisciplinary contributions to guarantee its continuity and well-being.
Mission
To contribute to the strengthening of our own epistemologies and methodologies, inspired by the knowledge of indigenous, Afro-descendant, Montubio and peasant peoples and nationalities, while establishing a rigorous and critical dialogue with academic sciences and public institutions.
Commitment
To consolidate situated and relevant research, with a real capacity to influence public policies, educational processes and territorial strategies for sustainability and Good Living.
Research areas
- Intercultural Biodiversity and Community Conservation; Processes of documentation, territorial management and valuation of biocultural knowledge.
- Chacras de Vida and Critical Agroecology; Analysis of productive and cultural systems that sustain community life.
- Ecosocial Relations and Climate Change; Studies on impacts, adaptive practices and territorial knowledge.
- Territorial Governance and Living Heritage; Research and support in processes of autonomy and territorial planning.
- Dialogue of Intercultural Knowledge and Methodologies; Methodological Designs for the Co-production of Knowledge.
- Social Innovation and Territorial Solutions; Proposals to strengthen community health, solidarity economies and appropriate technologies.
Invitation
The IIBPNEPK is a space for researchers, teachers, students, institutions, organizations, research groups and communities seeking:
- To produce knowledge with territorial anchoring.
- Participate in academic and community networks.
- To contribute to the protection of biodiversity and living territories.
- Developing sustainable alternatives for Good Living.
We bring to the country and the region a research perspective that originates from the territories and projects itself to the world, contributing thought, methodology and proposals from the peoples who have sustained life for centuries.
Contacts
Freddy SimbañaVice-Rector for Community Management, Research and Engagement with Society (freddy.simbañ[email protected])
Giannina Zamora. Director of the Institute of Biodiversity of the Peoples and Nationalities of Ecuador “Pachamamanta Kamak” ([email protected])
Stalin Herrera. Teacher ([email protected])
