Implementation Of Basic Sustainability Accounting Concepts for Teachers in Yala-Thailand and Students in Kampung Baru-Malaysia

Abstract

Sustainability has become a global concern, particularly in education, as it plays a crucial role in fostering awareness of the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental aspects. However, sustainability accounting remains largely unfamiliar in primary and secondary education, especially in Southeast Asia. To address this gap, an intensive training program was implemented at Lukmanulhakeen School, Yala-Thailand, and Sanggar Belajar Muhammadiyah, Kampung Baru-Malaysia. The program aimed to enhance literacy in sustainability accounting among teachers and students using a hybrid method combining online and offline sessions. The program involved 30 teachers and 70 students, employed lectures, interactive discussions, and case-based practical exercises. Results showed significant improvements in participants' understanding, with average increases of 35%-40% for teachers and 28%-35% for students. Teachers demonstrated the potential to integrate sustainability accounting concepts into their curricula, while students exhibited heightened awareness of the relationships between economic, social, and environmental activities. Challenges such as language barriers and limited access to technology were mitigated through bilingual training modules and technical support. The program highlighted the effectiveness of a hybrid approach in accommodating diverse participant backgrounds and locations. This initiative underscores the importance of sustainability education and recommends further development, including post-training mentoring and digital resource provision, to ensure the sustained application of sustainability accounting concepts in educational communities. The program serves as a replicable model for similar efforts to build a more mindful generation of environmental and social sustainability.