An Evaluation on the Implementation of Environmental Education Program at Mutare Teachers’ College in Zimbabwe

The study evaluated the infusion and implementation of Secondary Teacher Training Environmental Education Program (STTEEP) in the College curriculum of Mutare Teachers’ College. The research sought to establish whether the stated objectives, teaching methods, assessment and activities related to Environmental Education (EE) have been incorporated and implemented in the College curriculum. The research used qualitative research, in particular a case study. Participant observation, interviews, focus groups and document analysis were used to collect information from EE stakeholders. The implementation of EE varied with subject areas and Lecturers concerned. Geography and Biology have infused and implemented EE content and assessment.  National Strategic Studies have replaced some topics with environmental education related content, although silent on assessment. There was no change in content and assessment in History and Religious Studies to cater for EE. In the Languages the content remained the same, but participatory methods are used to teach poetry and literary criticism. Commercial subjects have their course aims and content adjusted to include environmental education. Technical subjects have incorporated teaching methods related to environmental education. The College has established a resource centre and projects in support of EE. The major challenges to full implementation of environmental education are lack of enthusiasm, conservatism, human and financial constraints and inadequate institutional support. It is recommended that human and financial support be given to staff and students in order to implement environmental education programmes. In-service training, workshops and environment education campaigns should be done to motivate the staff and students in implementing the programme. Environmental education should be incorporated and examined across the curriculum from pre- school up to University level.