In the assignment, you should explore affordable and clean energy as an external determinant influencing the education systems of South Africa and two other developing countries.
1. Describe the situation of affordable and clean energy in SA and two other developing countries and how affordable and clean energy influences these countries´ education systems.
2. Critically discuss the differences and similarities that can be identified based on affordable and clean energy as an external determinant of education systems in South Africa and those two countries.
3. Demonstrate the best practices that each country may employ based on affordable and clean energy as the tenth Sustainable Development Goal.
1. The situation of affordable and clean energy in South Africa is still a challenge, with many people living in energy poverty and relying on traditional sources like coal and wood for their energy needs. This can have a negative impact on the education system, as students may not have access to reliable electricity for studying or attending classes. In comparison, countries like India and Nigeria also face similar challenges with access to affordable and clean energy. In India, many rural communities still lack access to electricity, while Nigeria struggles with an unreliable grid and frequent power outages.
Affordable and clean energy can influence education systems in these countries by providing students with a reliable source of electricity for studying, attending classes, and accessing online educational resources. It can also reduce the environmental impact of traditional energy sources, leading to a healthier learning environment for students and teachers.
2. When comparing South Africa, India, and Nigeria, some differences and similarities can be identified in how affordable and clean energy influences their education systems. South Africa has made some progress in transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, through government initiatives like the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme. In contrast, India has introduced ambitious targets for renewable energy capacity expansion, aiming to achieve 175 GW by 2022. Nigeria, on the other hand, is still heavily reliant on fossil fuels for energy generation, leading to high levels of pollution and limited access to electricity in rural areas.
One similarity across these countries is the need for investment in infrastructure and technology to improve access to affordable and clean energy. This can help to bridge the energy gap and provide students with the resources they need to succeed in their education. Additionally, all three countries could benefit from partnerships with international organizations and donors to support the transition to sustainable energy systems.
3. To demonstrate best practices for each country based on affordable and clean energy as the tenth Sustainable Development Goal, South Africa could continue to invest in renewable energy projects and promote energy efficiency initiatives in schools. India could focus on expanding access to off-grid solar solutions in rural areas and integrating renewable energy into the curriculum to raise awareness among students. Nigeria could prioritize upgrades to the existing energy infrastructure and implement policies to attract investment in clean energy projects.
Overall, affordable and clean energy plays a crucial role in shaping education systems in developing countries like South Africa, India, and Nigeria. By addressing the challenges related to energy access, these countries can create a more sustainable and equitable learning environment for students.