Examining The Role Of University Students As Change Agents: Leveraging Development Communication For Environmental Stewardship

Abstract

This study investigates the role of university students in the Greater Accra Region as change agents for environmental stewardship through development communication. It incorporates both students involved in environmentally focused clubs and those who are not, providing a comprehensive understanding of their perceptions, environmental awareness, and communication behaviors regarding sustainability. The research will be conducted across selected universities to explore how students engage with environmental issues and development communication strategies, as well as the influence these strategies have on their attitudes and practices. Employing a qualitative approach, the study will utilize semi-structured interviews to delve into students’ experiences and communication preferences related to environmental stewardship. This method allows for a flexible exploration of issues as they arise, ensuring a rich understanding of student perspectives. While the study references broader environmental policies to contextualize its findings, the primary focus remains on students and their empowerment as advocates for environmental change through effective communication. The examination will also address the challenges faced by students in promoting environmental initiatives, including insufficient institutional support, limited access to communication tools, and a lack of training in environmental communication. Additionally, socio-cultural factors that influence public discourse on environmental issues will be explored. The findings aim to highlight both the barriers and opportunities for enhancing student engagement in environmental stewardship, emphasizing the importance of addressing these challenges to foster a more effective student-led environmental advocacy in higher education.