Building a Greener Future: A Qualitative Insight into the Experiences of YES-O Coordinators

This qualitative study examined the experiences of Youth for Environment in Schools Organization (YES-O) Coordinators in elementary level within the Kapalong District. A total of 14 coordinators, selected through purposive sampling for their active involvement in environmental programs, participated in in-depth interviews. The study aimed to understand how these coordinators lead school-based environmental initiatives, engage students, and promote sustainability. Thematic analysis yielded four major themes: cultivating a culture of environmental responsibility, empowering young learners through active participation, overcoming barriers in resource-limited settings, and building collaborative networks for sustainable action. The findings emphasize the pivotal role of YES-O Coordinators in instilling ecological values and driving student-led environmental efforts. This study contributes to environmental education literature highlighting the need for stronger support systems, targeted training, and responsive policies to enhance the effectiveness of YES-O programs, particularly in rural and resource-limited contexts such as the Kapalong District.