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This study aims to explore the culture of reading literary texts in higher education and the strategies that can enhance the acquisition and learning of the content knowledge for both English Language and Literature in English. The study adopted an interpretivist paradigm and qualitative research design. The study is qualitative in nature. Language in/for/with content and schema theories form the basis for the study. The former holds that language cannot be acquired outside content whilst schemata are stored mental structures that determine the acquisition of new knowledge; thus, literary content knowledge may not be acquired/learned outside linguistic and communicative competencies and vice versa. Data were collected from the relevant literature from the past six years. It was interpreted and analysed thematically. The results showed that students' habit of reading is poor which affects their academic performance. In addition, new technological devices make learning easier and more accessible, but it negatively affects students' ability to read authentic texts for information and entertainment. The study therefore concludes that university students do not read literary texts because of the bad use of information and communication technology. However, the use of digital libraries could improve the situation. The findings suggest that institutions of higher learning should have strategies to engage linguists and literary scholars in the habit of reading literary texts. University libraries should be equipped with relevant and updated digital reading materials.  

Indigenous knowledge (IK) plays a crucial role in rural African communities by contributing to the development of mitigation and adaptation strategies, enhancing resilience to climate-related challenges. However, there is limited documentation of its application in South Africa. This study investigates the adoption of IK in the Vhembe district, focusing on general use, disease prediction and farming practices. Results indicate that the respondents possessed a rich reservoir of IK, with 76.1% affirming its use for different purposes. Most respondents (75.3%) use IK for farming, with 63.1% using it for disease prediction. Most participants (74.3%) reported adequate confidence levels in their use of IK for general purposes. Respondents who had stayed longer in Vhembe reported higher confidence levels in using IK, as did those above 66 years old in using this knowledge system for disease prediction. The use of IK indicators for early warning of malaria outbreaks was also documented. Investigating and documenting IK use in communities could inform the basis for preservation and hence, enhance IK recognition. The integration of IK in the development of early warning systems may enhance their relevance and effectiveness in combating the effects of climate change and infectious diseases.