November 27, 2025

NAVTIKA | VOL XVI  | ISSUE NO. 1 (August 2025- November 2025) Author: Arpita Singh Abstract This article explores innovative approaches to integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into early childhood education, focusing on pedagogies, community engagement, and experiential learning. It highlights successful case studies and best practices worldwide, demonstrating how early learners can develop essential skills and values for sustainability. The article emphasizes the importance of integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into early education to foster responsible global citizens and provides practical examples for educators to create impactful learning experiences. Introduction The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) emphasizes the need for quality education, Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG) 4 and environmental sustainability. Integrating these goals into early childhood education is essential for fostering responsible global citizens from an early age. Innovative pedagogies, community engagement, and experiential learning can help young learners grasp sustainability concepts effectively.   1. Innovative Pedagogies for Integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into Early Learning “Children are not things to be moulded, but are people to be unfolded.” – Jess Lair.Innovative teaching methods such as inquiry-based learning, project-based learning, and nature-based education are effective in embedding Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into Pre-School curricula.Case Study: Green Pre-Schools in Sweden have successfully implemented sustainability into learning by engaging children in growing their food, reducing waste, and storytelling about environmental conservation.Example: Teachers in India encourage children to bring reusable lunch boxes and water bottles, reinforcing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) – (Responsible Consumption and Production). 2. Best Practices in Early Childhood Classrooms for Promoting Sustainability “We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” – Native American Proverb.Sustainable classrooms focus on reducing waste, conserving energy, and integrating nature into learning environments.Case Study: The Sustainable Schools Program in Australia involves young children in composting, water conservation, and solar energy use, fostering a culture of sustainability from an early age.Example: Organizing “Eco-Fridays” where children engage in tree planting, recycling, and environmental storytelling, reinforces Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) (Climate Action) 3. Case Studies of Successful Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)-Focused Early Learning InitiativeCase Study: Little Eco-Warriors in Kenya talk about clean water (Sustainable Development Goal-6 (SDG-6) through hands-on activities like visiting local water sources and learning about water filtration.Example: A Montessori preschool in the USA integrates sustainable gardening, where children grow vegetables and learn about Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 (Zero Hunger) 4. Role of Play-Based and Experiential Learning in Fostering Sustainability “Play is the highest form of research.” – Albert EinsteinPlay-based learning fosters critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, making sustainability concepts more relatable to young children.Case Study: Forest Schools in Finland use outdoor play to teach biodiversity(Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15) by observing plants and animals in their natural habitats.Example: Brazilian classrooms use recycled materials for toys and artwork, reinforcing the importance of reusing and reducing waste (Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12). 5. Developing Age-Appropriate Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)-Related Content and Activities “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I will remember. Involve me and I learn.” – Benjamin Franklin.Early childhood educators use stories, songs, and hands-on activities to introduce sustainability concepts effectively.Case Study: German Pre-Schools use illustrated books and puppet shows to teach environmental protection to young learners.Example: Water play activities in India demonstrate Sustainable Development Goal  SDG) 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), helping children understand conservation. 6. Policies and Frameworks Supporting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)- Aligned Early Education“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela.Global frameworks such as UNESCO’s Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) framework guide the integration of sustainability in early education.Case Study: Finland’s national curriculum incorporates sustainability education from preschool onwards. 7. Teacher Training and Professional Development for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Integration “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” – Henry Adams.Educator training programs equip teachers with the skills to incorporate sustainability into early learning.Case Study: Canada’s climate education program offers courses that help preschool teachers use storytelling and hands-on learning to teach the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Example: Teacher development sessions conducted every month in Singapore foster collaboration and exchange of best practices for sustainability education 8. Community Engagement and Partnerships in Early Childhood Sustainability Education “It takes a village to raise a child.” – African ProverbCollaborating with parents, local businesses, and organizations enhances sustainability education.Case Study: Eco-Farming in the Philippines involves children and parents in organic farming initiatives, promoting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 (Zero Hunger).Example: USA preschools run “Green Family Challenges,” where families track sustainable habits such as reducing electricity use and composting food waste. Conclusion Integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into early childhood education through innovative pedagogies, experiential learning, and community involvement can foster a generation of environmentally conscious and responsible individuals. By adopting best practices and global frameworks, educators can create impactful learning experiences that align with sustainability goals. References About AuthorArpita SinghFoundational years facilitator in Gardenia Public School, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh.

NAVTIKA | VOL XVI  | ISSUE NO. 1 (August 2025- November 2025) Author: Ashutosh Singh Introduction As we look around today, from smartphones to smartboards, artificial intelligence (AI) is gradually becoming an integral part of our everyday lives. We are living in a time when artificial intelligence, once a futuristic idea from science fiction, is now shaping how we live, work, and even learn. However, the real power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) lies not just in technology, but in how we choose to use it. Artificial Intelligence (AI) can also help design students’ curriculum, improve how they learn, and even ensure that what they learn contributes to solving real-world problems. This information will empower educators for sound use of technology. Let us explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI)- powered curriculum mapping, when connected to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and guided by India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, is bringing the classrooms of today closer to the future we all dream of. Why Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Matter in Schools The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations are the world’s action plan to eliminate poverty, promote equality, protect our planet, and ensure quality education for all. Schools play a key role here because students shall collectively shape the future of this world. Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education is not just about going to school; it is also about learning the right skills to live responsibly and contribute meaningfully. This presents an urgent need to integrate curricula globally with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) values to ensure a holistic and equitable learning experience.This is where Artificial Intelligence (AI) comes in as a powerful enabler. What Is Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Powered Curriculum Mapping? In simple terms, Artificial Intelligence (AI) can: For Example, a class is learning about food chain here, Artificial Intelligence (AI) can recommend adding modules on sustainable agriculture (linked to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2, “Zero Hunger”) or the impact of deforestation on biodiversity (linked to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15, “Life on Land”). It helps schools move beyond rote learning to enable students to connect knowledge with action. Think of it like a smart GPS that helps schools align their learning journey with global goals. Reimagining The Classroom Indian Innovations and NEP 2020 Alignment Global Best Practices And Examples Let us also look at how leading institutions around the world are transforming education through Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) alignment:Finland – Known for its educational excellence, Finnish schools use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to co-design cross-disciplinary modules. For example, a Grade 7 project on local food production integrated science (photosynthesis), economics ( costing), and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 – (Responsible consumption and production).Singapore’s National Institute of Education (NIE) uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to recommend teacher development courses based on classroom performance data. Their Edu Lab projects create learning journeys aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 and digital fluency. How Can Indian Schools Lead the Way? With India’s digital infrastructure growing fast, initiatives like DIKSHA, NDEAR, and PM eVidyaschools are much better placed to become agents of change.Here’s what we can do:1. Design lessons that link textbook knowledge to global challenges: A lesson on fractions could involve calculating water usage (linked to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, “Clean water and sanitation”).2. Create interdisciplinary projects: For example, a biodiversity survey (linking environment with botany, zoology, etc.) with GIS mapping (geography and technology) can link to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15 – (Life on land).3. Use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to track progress: Schools can use platforms that visualize curriculum-to-Sustainable Develop- ment Goal (SDG) mapping and suggest personalized learning plans. This can be particularly useful for students not performing up to the minimum standard and those with special needs.4. Include student voice: Use Artificial Intelligence (AI) surveys and reflections to adapt content based on what students care about be it plastic pollution, gender justice, or mental health. Final Thoughts: Empowering Future Change- makers Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not here to replace teachers or textbooks it is here to empower them. It is a tool that helps schools become more inclusive, future-ready, and globally responsible. When used wisely, ArtificialIntelligence (AI) can ensure that every lesson taught in the classroom also teaches a lesson about the world we want to build.It must be emphasized that students are not just preparing for exams they are preparing to solve real-world problems. Every subject they learn can be a seed that grows into climate action, innovation, equality and peace. As young learners, children and youth are not just students they are future leaders, scientists, artists, and changemakers. Their classroom is a training ground for a better India and a better world. With Artificial Intelligence (AI) as their ally and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as their compass, there is no limit to what they can achieve.Let us not only learn from textbooks, but also learn from the world around us. Let us not only prepare for academic excellence, but also prepare for life. And let us ensure that every lesson we learn today brings us one step closer to a more sustainable, equal, and empowered tomorrow. Let us ensure that the curriculum of the future teaches not only what to think, but also why to think, and how to act. References About the author Ashutosh SinghIndian Forest Service (IFS)- Civil Service, Forest and Wildlife Management Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Pithoragarh Forest DivisionUttarakhand