Policymaking in the Area of Education for Sustainable Development in Indonesian Higher Education: A Qualitative Inquiry

Abstract

Abstract Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes necessary to make decisions that positively impact the prospects of a sustainable future. Through ESD, students learn how their actions affect the planet and society. Although ESD is globally recognised as essential, it has received limited attention in Indonesia. While some studies have explored ESD in the Indonesian context – such as literature reviews, the historical development of environmental education (EE) and its relationship with ESD and the role of leadership in ESD curriculum reform at higher education institutions (HEIs) – there remains a gap in the studies focusing on ESD policymaking within Indonesian higher education. This study aims to analyse institutional policies and documents to identify what measures and policies are currently in place to support sustainability goals and to understand how lecturers are involved in the policymaking process for ESD at their respective institutions. The study includes interviews with six lecturers from universities in Central Java, East Java and Sulawesi, as well as a document analysis of ESD-related policies at these institutions. The findings revealed that, despite the presence of policies and measures for ESD, challenges persist due to varying levels of understanding of ESD among students and staffs, as well as a lack of systemic green initiatives. At the policymaking level, although some participants were involved in reviewing and revising the university’s strategic plans, their understanding of ESD and its implementation remained superficial. Additionally, universities have not made significant efforts to implement sustainable policies.

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