Education for sustainable development in non-formal set-ups : diagnosing a culture of inertia

Abstract

State and civil society should play a crucial role in the promulgation of education for sustainable development (ESD) and implementation of related national policy at grassroots level, beyond formal education set-ups, within the lifelong learning (LLL) process. This paper discusses findings of research with political parties, religious organizations, local councils and select government entities in Malta, as part of broader research targeting informed formulation of Nurturing a Sustainable Society: A National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development for Malta (NSESD). Questionnaire and interview response rates and accessibility to data for documentary analysis were encouraging. There is evidence of ESD initiatives, such as community activities and development projects. However, findings testify to barriers, such as sporadic use of resources and mayhem in the conceptual understanding of ESD. Despite recent efforts, such as formalizing ESD within Malta’s National Curriculum Framework (NCF), interdependency and coordination within and between state and civil society are weak. A perceived organizational “culture of inertia” must be challenged. Ultimately, ESD remains a political issue; grassroots efforts need the commitment of the political class and an appropriate legislative framework.