ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION AND SUSTAINABLE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION: CAUSES, EFFECTS AND WAY FORWARD

Abstract

The impact of environmental pollution (EP) in schools are not only on the well-being of the students and teachers alone but can spread to different aspects of education, mental health and general community health. The impact of EP on the students can cause both mental and emotional health that affects students’ academic performances and teachers' job motivations in negative ways because of the reactions of students to the allergic actions caused by environmental pollutants. A very conducive environment is important to a positive learning outcome and occupational safety of the teachers and students on the school premises. It is therefore important to assess the impact of environmental pollution on the sustainable administration of schools because of negative effects and to encourage students to think and act appropriately on environmental issues. Qualitative multiple case studies and a review of relevant literature in the interpretive research paradigm were adopted in this research. Secondary data from prints and online media were sourced and arranged into themes for content analysis by looking at issues historically and holistically and research questions formulated on each theme to address specific issues on the causes and effects of environmental pollution on the sustainable administration of schools by answering the formulated research questions. It was suggested that special budgetary allocation should be provided for the provision of facilities such as ventilated classrooms and offices and the student-teacher ratio should be adhered to prevent overcrowding in the classrooms and regular public health awareness among stakeholders.