Bridging knowledge systems synergies gaps and drivers of Indigenous and scientific knowledge integration for sustainable agriculture in Ethiopia

Harnessing the synergy between indigenous wisdom and modern science is crucial for sustainable agriculture; however, empirical evidence on the drivers of this integration remains scarce, particularly in Ethiopia. This study examines the integration status and the primary drivers influencing the integration of this knowledge system in Ethiopian agricultural production. This study used a cross-sectional research design, collecting data from 197 samples through surveys, focus groups, and key informant interviews, and analyzed it with descriptive statistics and an OLS model. The result of this study indicates a persistent pattern of limited integration between indigenous and formal scientific knowledge, with deep synergistic application remaining exceptional rather than normative. The regression analysis reveals that strong social networks, farmers' belief in IK values, contact with DAs, and exposure to religious activity participation significantly enhance the integrated utilization of both knowledge systems. In contrast, formal education discourages such integration due to its predominant focus on modern scientific approaches. This study infers the need to revitalize extension services and foster community-based platforms to integrate indigenous perspectives into formal scientific knowledge systems. This finding contributes by quantifying these specific drivers, thereby providing strong evidence for policymakers to design inclusive agricultural policies for both knowledge systems.