Empowering Changemakers Through Education: The Role of Teaching and Learning In Poverty Alleviation in Sabah- A Contribution to SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 4 (Quality Education)

Objective: This paper investigates the role of education in creating and nurturing changemakers for poverty alleviation in Sabah, aligning with SDG 1 (No poverty) and SDG 4 (Quality Education). This paper studies the attributes of changemakers and how teaching and learning approaches can empower changemakers with the aim of recognizing their potential in addressing social issues particularly poverty in Sabah. Theoretical Framework: This study applies the concept of changemaker education and support the investigation of how attributes are cultivated in curriculum design by emphasizing SDG 4 (quality education) and contributing to SDG 1 (No poverty). Method: This study conducted a qualitative research design through thematic analysis of written reflections and perspectives collected from community leaders and social enterprises. Data obtained through interviews and coded into relevant themes. Results and Discussion: The results revealed several key themes answering the research questions. Teaching and learning approaches were also identified to foster changemaker traits such as empathy, resilience, innovation, and critical thinking in order to achieve SDG 1 (No poverty) through the realization of SDG 4 (Quality education). Research Implications: The study provides practical implications for curriculum designs to promote personal growth and social impact in line with SDG 1 (No poverty). It supports the incorporation of attributes and social skills-making based education as well as emphasizing SDG 4 (Qualilty education) to develop socially aware graduates. Originality/Value: This study fills the gap in the literature by integrating the often-overlooked views of social enterprises and community leaders, suggesting a localized opinion of changemaker education's role in social issues. Its application lies in curriculum development in universities.