ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS, ATTITUDE AND PARTICIPATION AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN MOGADISHU-SOMALIA

Abstract

Environmental degradation poses a major threat to the existence of humanity today both in rural and urban settlements. In such a scenario, the importance and need for environmental education as a tool for environmental management and conservation cannot be overemphasized. To raise environmental literacy level among Somalians, Environmental Education is taught using both interdisciplinary and multi-disciplinary approaches. The aim of this study was to establish the level of awareness, attitude and participation of secondary school students in environmental activities in these two different settlements. The study involved a sample of 200 and secondary school students randomly selected from secondary schools in Mogadishu Divisions. Data was primarily collected using researcher developed questionnaires. Analysis of the data was done by first coding them in SPSS version 2016. The study has achieved its objective by drawing a comparison between students in different sections of an urban divide. It was also found out that there is need to refocus the approach of EE in order to ensure that it does not only make learners aware but also create a sense of personal responsibility which is fundamental in ensuring sustainable environmental behavior. The findings of the study may be used by authorities in making priorities in terms of environmental education for various settlements in urban set up. It will also help in tailoring EE approach to make it relevant and responsive to the immediate concerns and responsibilities of students and the entire community by environmental concern.