1. Introduction
The African Institute in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (AIIKS) UNESCO C2C, headquartered at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), is committed to safeguarding the personal and cultural data of our users. This policy outlines how we collect, use, and protect information in alignment with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and international data standards.
2. Information We Collect
We collect information in the following ways:
- Personal Identification: Names, email addresses, and contact details provided via membership forms or inquiries.
- Research Data: Information shared during collaborative innovation or "Living Laboratory" participation.
- Technical Data: IP addresses and cookies used to improve website functionality.
3. Protection Against Biopiracy
In line with our mandate for Epistemic Justice, AIIKS takes extraordinary measures to ensure that indigenous knowledge shared through this platform is protected from biopiracy and unauthorized commercial exploitation. Data shared by knowledge holders is treated as "Sovereign Intellectual Property."
4. Use of Information
Your information is used to:
- Facilitate the "Hub and Nodes" research network.
- Update members on UNESCO C2C programmatic pillars.
- Validate and archive oral histories and traditional pharmacopoeia securely.
5. Data Sharing & Third Parties
We do not sell your personal data. Data may only be shared with our 30+ authorized research nodes across Africa under strict confidentiality agreements designed to protect African scholarship and community rights.
6. Your Rights
Under South African law, you have the right to access, correct, or request the deletion of your personal information. You may contact our data officer at UKZN for any privacy-related inquiries.