The Role of Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs) in the Sustainable Management of Natural Resources in Rwanda

This study investigates the role of Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs) in the sustainable management of natural resources in Rwanda. Despite a considerable number of HLIs that strive to provide education for all, Rwanda faces significant challenges related to the mismanagement of natural resources. To address this issue, a quantitative study was conducted utilizing descriptive and correlational research designs. A sample of 100 students was randomly selected from three different HLI campuses, and data were collected using a self-developed questionnaire. Analysis was performed using SPSS version 23. The results revealed a low mean score across various aspects of natural resource understanding, including awareness (M = 2.7, SD = 0.86), knowledge of resource types (M = 2.75, SD = 0.86), utilization (M = 2.7, SD = 0.86), sustainable use (M = 2.72, SD = 0.86), management (M = 2.77, SD = 0.86), and exploitation (M = 2.75, SD = 0.96). The absence of strong mean scores across all items indicates that HLI students possess an inadequate understanding of sustainable natural resource management in Rwanda. Moreover, the standard deviations greater than 0.5 in all questions suggest diverse opinions among HLI students regarding natural resource management. To mitigate this issue, it is essential to develop a curriculum related to natural resource knowledge that equips HLI students with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage and share information about these resources in their communities effectively.