ABSTRACT

The research work focused on the factors that influences students readiness to adopt sustainable behaviors through environmental education program. Students from five faculties in the University of Benin were randomly selected, using simple random sampling technique faculty of Education, Agriculture, Arts, Engineering and Life Science was selected.

A descriptive survey research design was adopted to carry out this study. Data was collected using a multiple choice and likert scale items questionnaire from all the selected departments from the five faculties and analyzed. A total of 298 questionnaire were distributed, answered and analyzed. 

The study's findings indicated that exposure to environmental issues, collaborative green projects, understanding the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors, a sense of responsibility towards future generations, and the availability of resources and support in educational institutions significantly influence students' readiness to adopt sustainable behaviors. Additionally, cultural influences, community sustainability efforts, childhood exposure to environmental issues, socioeconomic differences, and past environmental education experiences were identified as demographic variables influencing students' readiness for sustainable behavior change. The study also highlighted the effectiveness of integrating sustainability into extracurricular activities, mentorship from sustainability experts, student-led sustainability platforms, practical sustainability skills workshops, and local partnerships in enhancing students' readiness to embrace sustainable behaviors.