Local Curriculums for Sustainable Development

 Local Curriculums for Sustainable Development

By Janpha Thadphoothon

In this blog, I would like to share my thoughts and ideas on curriculums and development. My thesis is this: actively involving local communities in curriculum planning and implementation can help strengthen the community, build a more resilient society, and promote sustainable development.

One may ask what such development is. Sustainable development is a concept that resonates globally, yet its most profound impact is often felt at the local level. In my opinion, the road to sustainable development begins with the strengthening of local communities and the enhancement of human resource quality. One way to achieve this is through the development and implementation of local curriculums in schools.  

OpenAI. (2024). An oil painting depicting a harmonious blend of education, nature, and local culture. [AI-generated image]. /mnt/data/An_oil_painting_depicting_a_harmonious_blend_of_ed.png.

The Role of Local Curriculums in Education  

Local curriculums are more than just an addition to national education frameworks; they are tailored educational programs that respond directly to the unique needs, values, and aspirations of specific communities. When schools take on the primary responsibility of developing these curriculums, they provide students with learning experiences that are not only relevant but also contribute to the stability, prosperity, and sustainability of their communities.  

It is obvious that local curriculums can help foster a sense of belonging among students. By focusing on local culture, traditions, and environmental issues, students gain an understanding of their roots, and this awareness is the bedrock of responsible citizenship. Educating students about their local surroundings encourages them to engage in sustainable practices and find solutions to the challenges that their communities face.  

Local Curriculums as a Foundation for Sustainable Development  

Sustainable development hinges on three pillars: economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity. Local curriculums can address all three aspects. For example, a local curriculum that emphasizes agriculture and sustainable farming practices can directly contribute to economic growth while promoting environmental stewardship.  

Likewise, lessons on local history, languages, and social structures can teach students the importance of inclusivity and diversity, contributing to social equity. When students learn about local issues and how they relate to broader global challenges, they become more informed and responsible citizens, ready to contribute to the sustainable development of their communities.  

Schools as Agents of Change  

Common sense tells us that schools play a crucial role in shaping the future. By implementing local curriculums, they become not just institutions of learning, but also catalysts for community development. Schools can partner with local governments, businesses, and non-profit organizations to ensure that the curriculum remains relevant and aligned with the community's sustainable development goals.  

In my experience, schools that embrace local curriculums see a higher level of student engagement and community involvement. Students take pride in learning about their heritage and are more inclined to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. This hands-on, localized approach to education helps in building a sense of ownership and responsibility among students towards their community and the environment.  

The Way Forward  

The journey toward sustainable development begins at the grassroots level. Schools must take the lead in developing local curriculums that cater to their communities' unique needs and aspirations. In doing so, they empower students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to contribute to a more sustainable future.  

Local curriculums are an essential element in the pursuit of sustainable development. They not only provide students with relevant and meaningful education but also lay the foundation for building stable, prosperous, and sustainable communities. Schools, therefore, have a critical role to play as agents of change in promoting and achieving sustainable development through locally-focused education.  

By prioritizing local curriculums, we invest in our communities' long-term well-being, creating a ripple effect that can contribute to global sustainability.

About Janpha Thadphoothon

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand. Janpha Thadphoothon also holds a certificate of Generative AI with Large Language Models issued by DeepLearning.AI.