DEVELOPING GREEN CURRICULUM FOR SUSTAINABLE BASIC EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This chapter examined the concept of green curriculum and its relevance to the Nigerian basic education system. The chapter discussed the meaning and dimensions of green curriculum as an educational framework designed to promote environmental awareness, sustainable development, ecological responsibility, and practical environmental problem-solving among learners. The study further examined the condition of Nigerian schools in relation to environmental education and highlighted the growing environmental challenges confronting the country, including flooding, desertification, deforestation, poor waste management, pollution, and climate change. The chapter argued that Nigerian schools must move beyond conventional knowledge transmission to curriculum practices that equip learners with sustainability competencies and environmental responsibility. Attention was also given to the strategies for developing green curriculum in Nigerian basic education, including curriculum integration, teacher preparation, community participation, provision of green infrastructure, policy reforms, and experiential learning approaches. The chapter established that green curriculum is essential for producing environmentally conscious citizens capable of supporting national development and environmental sustainability. The chapter concluded that integrating sustainability principles into Nigerian basic education will strengthen environmental literacy, improve learners’ attitudes toward conservation, and prepare future generations to respond effectively to ecological challenges. Recommendations were made for curriculum planners, government agencies, teachers, school administrators, and communities on effective implementation of green curriculum in Nigerian schools.