The Role of Students in Driving Structural Transformation for Inclusive and Sustainable Development

This study explores the role of students in driving structural transformation for inclusive and sustainable development. Recognising students as pivotal actors in promoting sustainability, the research adopts a qualitative approach to delve into their experiences, motivations, and influence on social, economic, and environmental reform. Employing an exploratory research design, data was collected through semistructured interviews with a diverse sample of 20 students from various disciplines, socioeconomic backgrounds, and geographic locations. Thematic analysis was utilised to identify core themes reflecting students' contributions to sustainability and inclusivity. Findings highlight key roles students play, including advocacy, innovative solutions and research, policy participation, leadership development, sustainable lifestyle practices, fostering inclusivity, and global collaboration. The study underscores students' significant contributions to raising awareness, advancing interdisciplinary solutions, and advocating for policies supporting structural transformation. Recommendations suggest that universities support student advocacy, promote interdisciplinary research, incorporate policy advocacy into curricula, and enhance inclusivity and global collaborations. By equipping students with leadership and project management skills and fostering a campus environment conducive to sustainable practices, institutions can amplify students' impact. This study concludes that students, with adequate institutional support, can be powerful agents of change, advancing the global commitment to sustainable and inclusive development and effectively addressing complex global challenges.