Reaccreditation as a Lever for Innovation in Higher Education: Sustainability Literacy in a Time of Socio-ecological Crisis

Todder Kersrtyi^*
*Correspondence: Todder Kersrtyi, Department of Organizational Leadership and Development, University of Minnesota—Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA, Email:

Keywords

Socio-ecological • Symbiotic relationship • Policymakers

Introduction

The world is facing an unprecedented socio-ecological crisis marked by climate change, biodiversity loss, resource depletion, and social inequities. Addressing these multifaceted challenges requires a paradigm shift in education. Higher education institutions, as knowledge hubs, have a responsibility to cultivate sustainability literacy among students. Reaccreditation, a cyclical review process to ensure educational quality, offers a strategic avenue for institutions to embed sustainability literacy in their programs. This article examines the symbiotic relationship between reaccreditation and innovation in fostering sustainability literacy. The 21^st century has witnessed an alarming convergence of socio-ecological crises, including climate change, biodiversity loss, resource depletion, and social inequalities [1]. These crises necessitate a paradigm shift in how society approaches education, with a particular emphasis on preparing individuals to understand and address complex sustainability challenges. Higher education institutions are well-positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the mindset and skills of future leaders, scientists, policymakers, and citizens [2,3].

Literature Review

Sustainability literacy encompasses a holistic understanding of ecological, social, and economic systems, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global challenges. It equips individuals with the ability to analyze complex issues, make informed decisions, and contribute to sustainable solutions. In a time of socio-ecological crisis, sustainability literacy is no longer an optional skill but a fundamental competence for every graduate. It empowers students to become active agents of change, driving innovation across sectors. Reaccreditation, typically conducted by external agencies, evaluates an institution's educational quality and compliance with standards. Rather than viewing it as a mere bureaucratic procedure, institutions can leverage reaccreditation as an opportunity to reimagine their educational approach. By aligning accreditation standards with sustainability goals, institutions can signal their commitment to addressing contemporary challenges. Reaccreditation can incentivize curriculum revision, faculty development, and infrastructure enhancements that foster sustainability literacy [4].

Discussion

Reaccreditation, the periodic assessment of an institution's educational programs and practices, offers a strategic entry point for fostering innovation. Traditionally viewed as a compliance-driven process, reaccreditation can be reimagined as a catalyst for transformative change. By integrating sustainability literacy into the reaccreditation criteria, institutions can proactively address societal needs and align their educational offerings with the demands of the present and future. Sustainability literacy encompasses an understanding of the interconnectedness between social, economic, and environmental systems, as well as the ability to critically analyze and address sustainability challenges. Integrating sustainability literacy into higher education prepares students to become informed and engaged global citizens who can contribute meaningfully to solving complex issues [5,6].

Conclusion

The socio-ecological crisis demands a comprehensive transformation of higher education. Reaccreditation provides a strategic entry point for institutions to catalyze innovation by infusing sustainability literacy across disciplines. By equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to tackle global challenges, higher education can become a powerful force for positive change. As institutions embrace reaccreditation as a lever for sustainability innovation, they contribute to building a more just, equitable, and sustainable future. In the midst of a socio-ecological crisis, higher education institutions have a responsibility to prepare students for an uncertain future by instilling sustainability literacy and fostering innovation. Reaccreditation, rather than a mere bureaucratic process, can serve as a lever for transformative change within these institutions. Through the integration of sustainability literacy into higher education, we can hope to produce graduates who are not only academically proficient but also equipped to be stewards of a more just, equitable, and sustainable world.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

References

1. Fisher, P. Brian and Erin McAdams. "Gaps in sustainability education: The impact of higher education coursework on perceptions of sustainability." Int J Sustain High Educ 16(2015): 407-423.

Google Scholar, Crossref, Indexed at

2. Gosselin, David, Rod Parnell, Nicholas J. Smith-Sebasto and Shirley Vincent. "Integration of sustainability in higher education: Three case studies of curricular implementation." J Environ Sci Stud 3 (2013): 316-330.

Google Scholar, Crossref, Indexed at

3. Avila, Lucas Veiga, Walter Leal Filho, Luciana Brandli and Colin J. Macgregor, e al. "Barriers to innovation and sustainability at universities around the world." J Clean Prod 164 (2017): 1268-1278.

Google Scholar, Crossref, Indexed at

4. Cortese, Anthony D. "The critical role of higher education in creating a sustainable future." Plan for High Educ 31 (2003): 15-22.

Google Scholar, Indexed at

5. Blouin, David D. and Evelyn M. Perry. "Whom does service learning really serve? Community-based organizations' perspectives on service learning." Teach Sociol 37 (2009): 120-135.

Google Scholar, Crossref, Indexed at

6. Sandy, Marie and Barbara A. Holland. "Different worlds and common ground: Community partner perspectives on campus-community partnerships." J Commun Servicelearn 13 (2006): 30-43.

Google Scholar, Indexed at