Managing Climate Change: The Role of Religion in Selected Church Sponsored Secondary Schools in Tigania West Sub-County in Meru County- Kenya

Fridah Kathambi, Mercy Thuranira and Janet Naisoi
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Fridah Kathambi: Department of Education Arts, Meru University of Science & Technology
Mercy Thuranira: Department of Education Arts, Meru University of Science & Technology
Janet Naisoi: Department of Education Arts, Meru University of Science & Technology

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2024, vol. 8, issue 9, 580-593

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of religion in mitigating climate change within selected church-sponsored Secondary schools in Tigania West Sub-County in Meru County- Kenya. The objectives of this study were: to assess how environmental education is integrated into the curricula of church-sponsored Secondary schools in Tigania West Sub-County of Kenya, explore the influence of religious teachings on attitudes and actions toward climate change, examine community engagement in environmental initiatives, and identify both the barriers and opportunities for promoting environmental sustainability within these institutions. Specifically, the study seeks to examine how religious teachings, values, and practices influence environmental stewardship and promote sustainable behaviors in these schools. By exploring the intersection of faith and environmental responsibility, the study aims to uncover the potential contributions of religious institutions in addressing climate change challenges at the community level. Religion plays a crucial role in shaping the beliefs, values, and behaviors of individuals towards their environment. However, the role of church sponsored secondary schools in training individuals on environmental care is not well documented. The study was conducted in 3 selected church sponsored Secondary schools in Tigania West Sub-County in Meru County of Kenya. It adopted a descriptive survey design where a total of 25 respondents constituting of 19 teachers, 3 principals and 3 sponsors of selected secondary schools were targeted. Stratified random sampling technique was adopted where questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data. Th findings showed that the church played a great role in instilling moral values on students. However, little is known about their role in climate change mitigation. Therefore, this study highlights a potential gap in the education. This study recommends the need for religious institutions to rethink their educational priorities and consider incorporating teachings on climate change mitigation into their curriculum. This will play a vital role in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of students towards environmental stewardship and fostering a sense of responsibility towards environment. Religion plays a vital role in addressing climate change by inspiring action, advocacy, and providing a moral foundation for decision-making. This influence can foster positive societal change. Integration of climate change education into the curriculum, so as to enable schools to shape students’ attitudes and behaviors toward sustainability. Implementation of sustainable practices, such as reducing waste and conserving energy, while engaging the school community in environmental initiatives like workshops and campaigns, and partnering with environmental experts to encourage stewardship of the planet.

Date: 2024
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