MAPPING ICT'S ROLE IN ADVANCING CLIMATE CHANGE EDUCATION IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: A BIBLIOMETRIC STUDY OF A DECADE OF PROGRESS AND COLLABORATION
University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (SOUTH AFRICA)
About this paper:
Conference name: 17th annual International Conference of Education, Research and Innovation
Dates: 11-13 November, 2024
Location: Seville, Spain
Abstract:
The role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in improving climate change education and policy implementation in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has been increasingly acknowledged as a crucial area of study in the past decade. This bibliometric analysis from 2010-2024 explores the advancements made and the challenges encountered in integrating ICT into climate change education and policy frameworks within the region. The findings demonstrate a substantial rise in academic literature focusing on the intersection of ICT, climate-change education, and policy implementation, indicating a growing understanding of the need for creative approaches to address climate-related challenges. ICT has established itself as a crucial resource for the dissemination of information, enhancement of communication, and promotion of collaboration among those involved in climate-change initiatives. The analysis highlights that diverse ICT platforms, such as mobile applications, online educational modules, and social media, have been effectively utilized to raise awareness, inform communities, and engage policymakers in climate action. Nevertheless, several impediments persist, including inadequate infrastructure, limited technological accessibility in rural areas, and disparities in digital literacy across demographic groups. The Overarching Research Question is “How has the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) influenced climate change education and policy implementation in Sub-Saharan Africa over the past decade?” This review highlights the critical need to contextualize ICT solutions to align them with local demands and cultural traditions, which is vital for their success. Effective collaboration among governments, educational bodies, and non-governmental organizations is imperative for creating integrated strategies that harness ICT for climate change education and policy enforcement. As sub-Saharan Africa faces the repercussions of climate change, this bibliometric analysis lays the groundwork for subsequent research aimed at discovering best practices and creative solutions that can bolster the role of ICT in promoting sustainable development throughout the region.Keywords:
ICT, climate change education, e-learning in agriculture, sustainable development.