Ecological education: a strategy to promote environmental stewardship among the youths of Bukoto Parish, Masaka Diocese

Abstract

The question of the natural environment, and the Divine mandate to care for it has been interwoven with the reality of human existence. However, human activities have often led to the abuse, failure, and degradation of the environment, compromising the integrity of its various components. This study highlights ecological education as a strategic tool for promoting environmental stewardship among the youth of Bukoto Parish, Masaka Diocese. For the study, a descriptive research design has been used to examine the role of ecological education in promoting environmental stewardship among the youths. However, the sample from which data was collected included both youth and elderly individuals to ensure diverse perspectives. Data collection involved field responses and a review of existing literature, combining first hand insights with scholarly analysis to support the study’s findings. The study highlights the urgent ecological challenges in the region and proposes a holistic approach involving formal and informal education, community engagement, eco-club formation, legislative action, and partnerships with environmental organizations. Emphasis is placed on integrating ecological content into curricula and teacher training, utilizing digital platforms, and embracing cultural ecology rooted in indigenous values and Church teachings like Laudato Si and Laudate Deum. Ecological education can foster a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability among present and future generations, and can be a means to counter the key environmental abuses such as deforestation, pollution, and poor waste disposal, with root causes including poverty, urbanization, and weak law enforcement. This can reinforce afforestation, sustainable agriculture, waste management, and ecological legislation. This study presents a comprehensive framework for promoting ecological education as a strategy to foster environmental stewardship among the youth of Bukoto Parish. It recommends an interdisciplinary approach that integrates ecological concepts into formal education and teacher training, while also extending outreach to non-formal settings through community workshops, vocational training, and media platforms. Emphasis is placed on community involvement, the formation of eco-clubs, and the enactment of eco-friendly legislation. The study advocates for collaboration with environmental organizations, the use of technology and social media for awareness, and the incorporation of cultural ecology rooted in indigenous values and magisterial teachings. By implementing these recommendations, the study envisions the development of an ecologically literate and sensitive society, empowered to make informed decisions and take proactive steps toward environmental sustainability.