The Extent to Which the GLOBE Program Achieves Sustainable Development Goals and Promotes Environmental Citizenship Among Omani Students
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Abstract
Environmental education is a crucial tool for addressing global challenges such as climate change and sustainability. This study examines the extent to which the GLOBE Program contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting environmental citizenship among Omani students. The research problem lies in assessing the program’s impact on students' environmental behaviors and beliefs, as well as teachers' perspectives on its effectiveness in achieving SDGs related to education and environmental awareness.
The study employs a descriptive methodology, utilizing a sample of 400 students,200 participants in the GLOBE Program, and 200 non-participants, from 44 Omani schools during the 2024/2025 academic year. Two primary tools were used: a questionnaire measuring students’ environmental citizenship and a survey evaluating teachers’ assessments of the program’s role in achieving SDGs.
The results indicate that the GLOBE Program significantly enhances environmental citizenship among participating students, with all measured domains—knowledge, behavior, feelings, and beliefs—achieved at high or very high levels. Statistically significant differences were found between participants and non-participants, favoring the former. Gender-based differences revealed that female students demonstrated stronger environmental beliefs and emotional engagement than their male counterparts. Teachers rated the program as highly effective in achieving SDG-related objectives, particularly in education and climate action.
The study recommends enhancing the program by integrating more hands-on activities to strengthen students' environmental knowledge and behavior. It also suggests leveraging students' strong environmental beliefs to promote leadership in sustainability initiatives. Expanding the program to more schools and age groups is proposed to maximize its impact on ecological citizenship and to create an education system and tools aimed at achieving the SDGs.
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