Environmental education: A sine-qua-non for building a sustainable future through general studies in tertiary institutions

Abstract

An education that is devoid of knowledge which spurs and stimulates character capital for sustainable globe is bridged. General studies (GS) in tertiary education stands in, as should equip and prepare students with general principles of culture, philosophy and science so as to be well rounded to sustainably function in the society on graduation. Study probes knowledge base of randomly selected students of tertiary institutions in South East Nigeria on key environmental aspects and concerns. Several related literature showed limited quantitative works that highlighted strategies and necessary Environmental Education (EE) components to meet sustainable development goals. Study fills the gap. Inferential and descriptive statistics incorporated after reviews and other print media assessments. Results indicate a poor understanding of global, as well as local environmental challenges, so need to dedicate a course on EE which could spur environmental literacy. Estimation indicate potential 13500000 environmental literates in 2030 from 500000 in 2017 with dedicated EE GS course. The study will educate policy makers on equipping GS to reflect prevailing realities and gear up inculcating sustainable approaches in attitudinal consciousness of students. Consequently, as future policy makers, a safer globe of higher potential will be achieved.

Key words: Environmental education, Sustainable development, General Studies