Indigenous knowledge and happiness in higher education: A systematic review

Boniface Kimwere; Jackson Ndolo; Jeddy M. Waigwa; Esther Wakere Mugo; Kelvin Nyaberi Omoi

doi:10.51867/AQSSR.2.4.60

Authors

Boniface Kimwere KCA University, Kenya Author https://orcid.org/0009-0009-7337-7726
Dr. Jackson Ndolo KCA University, Kenya Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7902-0842
Jeddy M. Waigwa KCA University, Kenya Author https://orcid.org/0009-0004-1162-8597
Esther Wakere Mugo KCA University, Kenya Author https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8199-1525
Kelvin Nyaberi Omoi KCA University, Kenya Author https://orcid.org/0009-0001-3964-9144

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/AQSSR.2.4.60

Keywords:

Commercialization, Education, Happiness, Indigenous Knowledge, Satisfaction

Abstract

From ancient times to the current digital era, the pursuit of happiness has remained the most painstaking human endeavor. This paper presents a systematic review of peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2025 to explore the application of indigenous knowledge within higher education. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework has guided this systematic review. Only 10 studies were selected for this study from various databases, including Scopus, JSTOR, and ERIC. The findings suggest that profound misunderstandings impede the attainment of happiness, particularly from an African perspective. Other studies have indicated that the commercialization and marketization of African universities have led to the replacement of happiness with satisfaction, as these institutions shift towards consumer theory. The review reveals that other societies, particularly in the East, have found happiness in their education systems through the application of indigenous, local knowledge. In conclusion, this paper contends that the African must discard the negative perception of indigenous knowledge and seek new ways of entrenching local traditions and wisdom to improve happiness levels within learning contexts. This paper recommends empirical research to understand how indigenous knowledge can be applied to increase happiness in higher education institutions.

Author Biography

Dr. Jackson Ndolo, KCA University, Kenya

Dr. Jackson Ndolo is a senior lecturer at KCA University.

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