Sustainable Educational Awareness and Sustainable Education Practices among Students of Selected Government Schools in Jhapa District, Nepal

Abstract

Introduction: Sustainable education awareness and practice are of growing concern, both in Nepal and
globally. Practicing sustainability requires every citizen to shoulder social responsibilities for the present and
the future. This study aims to investigate sustainable education awareness and practices among students.
Methods: The study employs a descriptive cross-sectional design to assess sustainable education practices
(SEP) and sustainable educational awareness (SEA) among students. It takes place in government schools in
Jhapa District, Province Number One, Nepal, with two specific schools chosen for the study. The study population includes secondary-level students from grades 8, 9, and 10, totaling 175 students, and selected using
a stratified sampling technique. Data collection involves self-administered questionnaires with an emphasis
on reliability and validity. Ethical approval and permissions ensure confidentiality and informed consent.
Results: The study employed descriptive, regression, and chi-square tests. The findings reveal average SEA
levels with limited SEP representation. The analysis underscores a weak link between awareness and practice. The sample, with an average age of 15.35, features balanced gender representation and primarily nuclear families involved in agriculture. Key information sources include social media and the school curriculum,
while socio-demographic factors show no significant associations with SEP.
Conclusion: The study underscores the significance of SEP and SEA for addressing global challenges.
While students exhibit an average SEA level, SEP remains deficient, with a weak link between awareness
and practice. Tailored interventions, diversified stakeholder involvement, and interdisciplinary approaches
are needed to prepare the next generation to address sustainability on a global scale and foster a more resilient future.
Key Words: School; SEA; Sustainable Educational Awareness; Sustainable Education Practice; SEP