The complex marriage: interfacing open science and open indigenous knowledge

PurposeThe open science movement is growing in unimaginable ways and incorporating more knowledge areas such as Indigenous knowledge. We argue that open science and open Indigenous knowledge (OIK) go hand in hand and therefore must be explored and developed together as social justice for the benefit of the society that support knowledge. This paper conceptualizes the link between open science and open Indigenous knowledge with the aim of creating an understanding of the linkages and their manifestations.Design/methodology/approachThis is a conceptual paper that emerges from some traditional literature review and bibliometric analysis of Scopus (focusing on open science) and ebsco (focusing on Indigenous knowledge) ranging from 2010 to 2024 conducted to determine the magnitude of research on open science and open Indigenous knowledge. Experiential knowledge based on previous research by the author on IK was used in conjunction with the two approaches for holistic analysis and discourse.FindingsThis article recognises the fundamental pillars of access to knowledge within applied ethics and international (e.g. UNDHR, SDG) and national frameworks (e.g. IK policies and legislations). It underscores the value of understanding indigenous knowledge and open science so that they can be applied appropriately and correctly when dealing with open indigenous knowledge which depends on their understanding and development to thrive. The growth of research on OS and IK is recognised through the limited bibliometric analysis in the paper. It is acknowledged by analysis of both SCOPUS and EBSCSCO databases that there are hardly any studies on open indigenous knowledge. We note the possibility of interfacing OS and OIK despite the limitations and suggest areas of attention in Tables 2 and 3 worth further exploration. OIK is likely to benefit more from the IK and OS challenges and opportunities to find its rightful place in OS movement in the future. Library and Information science education and research should be part of OIK growth.Research limitations/implicationsIt is acknowledged by analysis of both SCOPUS and EBSCSCO databases that there are hardly any studies on open indigenous knowledge. Despite its limitations, a broader, deeper and better understanding of open indigenous knowledge for research and development is expected to originate from this paper.Practical implicationsThis paper contributes to ongoing research, discourse, teaching and learning on Indigenous knowledge by providing understanding and a framework for developing open indigenous knowledge now and in the future.Social implicationsThe paper will have an impact on policy, research, teaching and learning as well as Library information services.Originality/valueThe paper explores and provides new scope and a framework for understanding and developing open indigenous knowledge.