Background of the Study
Climate change is one of the most critical global challenges, impacting numerous aspects of socio-economic development and environmental sustainability. University students, as future leaders and professionals, are at a pivotal stage in developing the knowledge and skills necessary to address these issues. In Kogi State, higher education institutions play a crucial role in shaping students’ understanding of climate change. However, preliminary observations indicate varying levels of awareness and understanding among students regarding the causes, impacts, and mitigation strategies associated with climate change (Adewale, 2023).
The educational curriculum and extracurricular activities offered in universities are vital for promoting climate literacy. Yet, limited access to updated scientific resources, insufficient integration of climate studies into core programs, and socio-economic constraints may hinder the development of comprehensive climate change awareness among students (Okoro, 2024). In this context, climate change awareness not only fosters informed citizenship but also encourages proactive engagement in sustainable practices and innovation in climate solutions.
Understanding the level of climate change awareness among university students can provide insights into the effectiveness of current educational approaches and help identify areas for improvement. This study will assess students’ knowledge of climate change, their attitudes toward environmental sustainability, and the influence of academic and social factors on their climate literacy. By integrating quantitative surveys with qualitative focus group discussions, the research aims to generate a comprehensive picture of climate change awareness in Kogi State’s higher education sector. The insights from this study will inform policy decisions and curriculum development, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and environmentally conscious future generation (Ibrahim, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the global emphasis on climate change, there is growing concern that university students in Kogi State may not possess adequate awareness and understanding of this critical issue. Rapid environmental changes and increasing climate-related crises necessitate a well-informed academic community capable of contributing to sustainable development. However, preliminary evidence suggests that gaps in climate literacy exist among students, which could impede their ability to engage in effective climate action and innovation (Chukwu, 2023).
The limited integration of comprehensive climate change education within university curricula, combined with challenges in accessing current scientific data, contributes to this knowledge gap. Many students rely on informal sources of information, which may not always provide accurate or complete insights into the complexities of climate change. This deficiency in understanding can have long-term implications, affecting not only individual behavior but also the broader societal capacity to adapt to and mitigate climate change impacts (Ibrahim, 2024).
This study seeks to address these challenges by systematically investigating the level of climate change awareness among university students in Kogi State. By identifying the factors that influence climate literacy and evaluating the effectiveness of existing educational approaches, the research aims to provide actionable recommendations for enhancing climate change education. Without targeted interventions, the next generation of professionals may be ill-prepared to address the environmental challenges of the future, thereby undermining efforts toward sustainable development.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on selected universities in Kogi State, using surveys and focus group discussions. Limitations include potential response biases, limited generalizability across all disciplines, and the challenge of capturing diverse academic perspectives.
Definitions of Terms
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Local radio stations have become indispensable tools for political campai...
Background of the Study
Training needs assessment (TNA) is a systematic process used by organizations to identify gaps in e...
Background to the Study
This study focuses on de...
Background of the Study
Moral education plays an essential role in shaping students’ ethical outlook and guiding the...
ABSTRACT
The menstrual cycle is affected by so many various factors e.g. stress and changes in diet and iron. Several other...
Background of the study
The role of prior knowledge in the learning process has been a focal point of e...
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Nigeria is a country known for its dive...
Chapter One: Introduction
Background of the Study
In the era of digital banking, the protection of digital assets has become a paramount concern for financial inst...
Abstract
The aim of the study is to examine the effect of corporate social responsibility on organizati...