PROMOTING SUSTAINABILITY IN NIGERIAN EDUCATION

Abstract This research explores the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and new media in reducing paper waste in Nigerian higher institutions. As part of the specific objectives, the study evaluated the impact of ICT and new media on the administration, communication, record-keeping, and student’s academic activities such as note-taking, assignments, assessments and preparation of study materials. Anchored on the Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT), the study examines the initiatives taken to implement new technologies in the educational systems. Data were collected through surveys of staff members from four institutions, and a six-week self-experimentation with five students. Despite the availability of numerous digital tools, participants exhibited a high reliance on paper for various activities such as teaching and administrative tasks. During the self-experimentation phase, however, there was a notable reduction in the use of paper for assignments and study materials when digital tools were utilised. The study concludes that ICT and new media have the potential to reduce paper waste, but limited internet availability, digital literacy, high cost of devices, and unstable power supply present challenges to their maximisation. The study recommendations include strengthening digital infrastructure and literacy and developing supportive policies to accelerate the transition to a paperless education system in Nigeria.