INVESTIGATING ENERGY LITERACY OF SECONDARY EDUCATION STUDENTS IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The behavioural interventions aimed at households have been proving to be cost effective in reducing energy use and reduce emission. Hence the study investigated energy literacy of secondary education students in Niger state. The study adopted a mixed methods research design. Specifically, the study utilized the explanatory design as it uses qualitative data to help explain quantitative results that need further exploration. The study was carried out in Niger State. The population of the study comprised of 23,456 students of secondary education in Niger State. 45 secondary education schools were sampled; 15 secondary education schools from three zones in the State and a total of number of 326 students were sampled for the study. Questionnaire and interview were instrument used for data collection. The reliability coefficient for the entire items of the questionnaire was 0.93. Out of 326 copies of the questionnaire administered to respondents, 292 were returned representing 89.57% return rate. 135 students were interviewed three from each school. Mean, Standard Deviation and Percentage were used to analyze the data collected to answer the research questions. The findings revealed low awareness on energy savings. 87.5% of the secondary education students across Niger State said they do not turn off the lamp while leaving the room. 93.2% of them agreed that they do not boiled minimum quantity of water to be used. 91.78% of the secondary education students want energy education be included in their school curriculum. It was recommended among others that; Government and concern personal or group should create awareness on energy savings. Energy literacy programmes should be designed and implemented in secondary schools to improve the awareness, consequences and attitudes toward behaviour regarding energy usage and its effect on environment.