Enhancing Climate Literacy in Higher Education Institutions: Insights from India
摘要
Climate change stands as one of the most intricate and urgent challenges of our era. In response, higher education institutions (HEIs) are increasingly tasked with equipping students with the interdisciplinary knowledge and skills essential for fostering sustainable development. This chapter delves into the integration of climate literacy within Indian HEIs, set against the backdrop of rapid environmental shifts and socioeconomic transformations. It traces the journey of environmental education in India, from its early legal foundations to the emergence of advanced interdisciplinary programs, offering a thorough analysis of curricular innovations, digital and experiential teaching methods, and the pivotal role of faculty development. The discussion also addresses institutional hurdles such as rigid curricula, resource limitations, and the constraints imposed by an exam-focused academic culture. Furthermore, this chapter examines government policies and international partnerships that support the mainstreaming of climate education. Through detailed case studies from institutions like Gujarat University, TERI School of Advanced Studies, IIT Bombay, and others, it highlights best practices. Drawing on a wealth of scholarly sources, this chapter concludes with actionable recommendations to incorporate climate content across various disciplines, increase curricular flexibility, harness digital innovations, and implement robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks. Ultimately, it presents a strategic roadmap to transform Indian HEIs into vibrant hubs of sustainability and innovation, preparing graduates to lead in tackling the global climate crisis.