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Investigating the Impact of Sustainability-Themed Extracurricular Activities on Student Engagement with the 17 SDGs by 2026: A Case Study of Greece

Author

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  • Athanasios Papavasileiou

    (Department of Business Administration, University of Western Macedonia, 51100 Grevena, Greece)

  • George Konteos

    (Department of Business Administration, University of Western Macedonia, 51100 Grevena, Greece)

  • Stavros Kalogiannidis

    (Department of Business Administration, University of Western Macedonia, 51100 Grevena, Greece)

  • Dimitrios Kalfas

    (Department of Business Administration, University of Western Macedonia, 51100 Grevena, Greece)

  • Christina-Ioanna Papadopoulou

    (Department of Regional Development and Cross-Border Studies, University of Western Macedonia, 50100 Kozani, Greece)

Abstract

This study explores how university students’ engagement in sustainability-themed extracurricular activities influences their awareness of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Given the critical role of higher education in advancing sustainability, this research assesses initiatives such as environmental action clubs, sustainability research, eco-innovations, green campuses, and training workshops for fostering awareness, engagement, and leadership. A cross-sectional quantitative design targeted 400 university students in Greece involved in sustainability-related extracurricular activities. Structured online questionnaires were used, and multiple regression analysis examined the relationship between extracurricular activities and SDG engagement. The findings highlighted that all five activity types significantly enhance students’ sustainability awareness. Environmental action clubs improve knowledge of climate change and waste reduction, while research projects strengthen engagement with renewable energy and climate resilience. Eco-innovation challenges foster problem solving and interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly in urban and industrial sustainability. Green campus initiatives promote practical sustainable strategies, and capacity-building programs develop leadership and teamwork skills. Extracurricular activities serve as transformative tools that bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world sustainability applications, equipping students with the mindset and skills to address global challenges. Universities and policymakers should enhance funding, digital integration, and collaborations to expand the reach of these programs. Future research should assess the long-term impact of student participation on sustainable behavior and broader societal well-being.

Suggested Citation

  • Athanasios Papavasileiou & George Konteos & Stavros Kalogiannidis & Dimitrios Kalfas & Christina-Ioanna Papadopoulou, 2025. "Investigating the Impact of Sustainability-Themed Extracurricular Activities on Student Engagement with the 17 SDGs by 2026: A Case Study of Greece," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(7), pages 1-24, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:7:p:3071-:d:1624462
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    1. Fortune Aigbe & Clinton Aigbavboa & Lebogang Ayobiojo & Patrick Ehi Imoisili, 2025. "Adaptive Learning for Inclusivity, Sustainable Development, and Societal Impact: A Case Study of Community Engagement at the University of Johannesburg," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-15, May.
    2. Marta Czyżewska & Elżbieta Szczygieł & Georgios Tsaples & Dimitra B. Manou & Jason Papathanasiou, 2025. "The Future of Sustainable Entrepreneurship: Youth Perspectives in Greece and Poland," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-25, June.

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