Impact of Sustainable Education Practices on National Development among Selected Higher Institutions in Southwest Nigeria, 2012-2024
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Date
2025-12
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Lead City University, Ibadan
Abstract
The imperative of sustainable education as a catalyst for national development has become increasingly prominent in the global discourse on education and policy reform. In Nigeria, where education remains a critical determinant of socio-economic transformation, the integration of sustainable principles within the educational system is pivotal to achieving long-term national goals. This study investigates the impact of sustainable education on national development, among selected higher institutions in South West Nigeria. The research examines how these institutions implement sustainable educational practices and evaluates their contribution to economic growth, environmental consciousness, social equity, and institutional resilience. The study’s theoretical framework is grounded in sustainable development theory, emphasizing the interconnectedness of education, economy, society, and environment. Adopting a descriptive survey research design, both qualitative and quantitative data were collected from academic staff, administrators, and students across strategically chosen universities in the region. Structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and institutional documents formed the primary instruments for data gathering. Findings reveal that while awareness of sustainable education is growing among stakeholders in higher institutions, implementation remains fragmented and inconsistent. Curriculum integration of sustainability concepts is present in certain disciplines but lacks a unified strategy across departments and faculties. Infrastructure development in most institutions reflects some level of environmental consciousness through green buildings and waste recycling initiatives, yet these efforts are limited by inadequate funding, policy gaps, and a lack of institutional commitment. Furthermore, the research highlights the significant role that higher institutions play in driving national development through innovation, research, and community engagement. However, their potential is often undermined by challenges such as poor governance structures, limited stakeholder collaboration, and an absence of long-term sustainability planning. The study concludes that sustainable education in South West Nigerian higher institutions holds great promise for accelerating national development if supported by
coherent policy frameworks, improved funding, staff training, and institutional accountability. Recommendations include the establishment of sustainability units within institutions, mandatory inclusion of sustainability education across all curricula, increased investment in research addressing local developmental issues, and stronger partnerships between academia, government, and industry. By situating sustainable education at the heart of higher learning, this study underscores its critical role in shaping future leaders and equipping graduates with the competencies required for sustainable national development. The research contributes to the broader understanding of how higher education can be strategically aligned with national development goals, particularly in emerging economies like Nigeria. The findings are expected to inform policymakers, educational planners, and institutional leaders seeking to transform the educational landscape in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 4 (Quality Education).
Key Words: Sustainable Education, National Development, Higher Institution, Southwest Nigeria.
Word Count: 422
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Keywords
Sustainable Education, National Development, Higher Institution, Southwest Nigeria.
Citation
kate Turabian