Why Education for Sustainable Development Should be a Priority in African Schools.

We recently had the opportunity to consult for a secondary school in Nigeria that is taking an important step towards equipping its students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to address global challenges affecting society, the environment, and the economy. The school recognizes that students can make a positive impact from a young age and is looking to integrate Education for Sustainable Development into their curriculum.

This is a step in the right direction because sustainable development is a crucial global issue, and Africa is no exception. In 2015, the United Nations agreed on 17 Sustainable Development or Global Goals to address the world’s most pressing issues. If the countries in Africa are to promote these goals, then we must recognize that education is a key tool to drive sustainable development and our schools play a significant role in shaping the future of the continent.

First, what is Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)?

ESD is a comprehensive approach to education that equips learners with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values necessary to contribute to sustainable development. It aims to empower learners to make informed decisions and take responsible actions for a sustainable future. ESD covers a range of topics, including environmental protection, social justice, economic development, and cultural diversity.

How can Schools Integrate ESD into their Curriculums?

The integration of ESD into school curriculums in Africa is not as difficult as it may seem. Schools can:

1. Review the existing curriculum and identify areas where ESD can be integrated.
2. Incorporate ESD into extra-curricular or club activities for the students.
3. Train teachers on ESD principles and practices.
4. Use experiential learning methods such as field trips and hands-on projects that align with the SDGs for each class.
5. Partner with organizations with expertise in incorporating ESD into schools. An example of such an organization is The Development School Africa.
6. Collaborate with local organizations and stakeholders to execute community-based projects per class.

Benefits of Introducing Education for Sustainable Development to Students.

By introducing sustainable development in schools:

• Students will become responsible citizens who are capable of making informed decisions and taking action from an early age to create a more sustainable future.
• Critical thinking and leadership skills are built and the students are equipped to participate in real-world problem-solving. By the time the students graduate, they’ve become socially, economically and environmentally conscious citizens. This knowledge can help to create a generation of learners who are more empathetic, inclusive, and committed to creating a just and equitable society.
• Communities in societies are impacted positively. Why? According to a report by UNESCO, students who participate in ESD programs are more likely to show a greater sense of responsibility for creating positive change. Similarly, a study by the United Nations Environment Programme found that ESD can help to build more sustainable and resilient communities by promoting sustainable practices and enhancing community resilience.

Education is a strong foundation for promoting sustainable development in Africa. It offers young people the opportunity to learn and practice sustainable principles in a deep and immersive environment, as opposed to one-off outreach programs with limited lasting impact. I strongly encourage more schools to take the initiative to introduce Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) to their students. If you’re an educator, school owner, or administrator interested in this, let’s get started here.