Journey to empowerment : a case study of the EkoSkola programme at two local primary schools

Abstract

The research attempts to tease out, explore and analyse any emerging trends and patterns in the dynamic process of student empowerment promoted through the experience of the EkoSkola programme at two local Primary Schools. The methodology involves an indepth critical analysis of the empowerment dynamics required for the proper functioning of the EkoSkola programme. It involves observations and individual and group interviews with participants involved. Research findings show that the empowerment process is a journey with commitment, knowledge and acquisition of competences, attitudinal change, clear direction, action, evaluation and celebration being its key milestones. Healthy relationships, democracy, inclusion and a holistic approach are found to be the pillars for a successful empowerment journey. The results also indicate that training in various inter and intra personal skills is crucial for the success of this journey. The study highlights the crucial role educators play in providing a more student empowering environment. Whilst adequate dissipation of information, experiential and cooperative learning and celebration of achievement are factors which catalyse this process, an academically overloaded curriculum and lack of autonomy of both teachers and students slow down this process.