Enhancing Student Engagement and Leadership in Climate Action: Research on the Role of Extracurricular Activities at Universities

Abstract

Climate change remains one of the most urgent global challenges today, demanding immediate action across all levels of society. Universities, as centers of learning and innovation, play a vital role in equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to combat climate change. While classroom instruction provides foundational theories, extracurricular activities offer practical, hands-on experiences that are essential for developing a deeper understanding of the subject. This article explores the significance of integrating climate change-related extracurricular activities in universities, focusing on their role in boosting students’ environmental awareness, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and encouraging active involvement in climate action. Through reviewing existing research and conducting a survey of students engaged in climate-related extracurriculars, this paper highlights the potential influence of such initiatives on student engagement and the wider academic community.