Sustainability in Education: Empowering Future Generations, with AHIS at the Forefront

What Is Sustainability in Education?

Sustainability in education is a comprehensive, future-focused approach to teaching and learning that aims to equip students not only with academic knowledge but also with the values, skills, and behaviors they need to thrive in and contribute positively to a changing world.

At its core, sustainability in education fosters a mindset of long-term thinking, encouraging learners to understand the impact of their actions on the environment, economy, and society. It teaches students how to:

•    Identify and address global and local challenges such as pollution, inequality, biodiversity loss, and climate change.

•    Collaborate on creating innovative, sustainable solutions.

•    Reflect on their own habits and advocate for positive change within their communities.

This type of learning goes beyond isolated environmental lessons. It is integrated into all areas of study, nurturing a generation of critical thinkers, ethical leaders, and responsible global citizens.

In the 21st century, education is no longer about simply preparing students for exams; it is about preparing them for life. Sustainability in education is life education, shaping individuals who care deeply about the world they live in and are empowered to improve it.

Al Hekma International School: A Model for Sustainability and Innovation in Bahrain

In the Kingdom of Bahrain, Al Hekma International School (AHIS) stands as a leading example of sustainability in education, setting high standards in both academic excellence and environmental responsibility. AHIS is proud to be:

•    The first and only school in Bahrain to be STREAM-certified by Cognia, integrating science, technology, research, engineering, arts, and mathematics through a holistic and innovation-driven approach.

•    A UNESCO-accredited school, aligning its mission and practices with global goals for sustainable development and peace education.

•    One of the founding members of the Eco-Schools network in Bahrain, emphasizing whole-school sustainability through student-led initiatives and environmental stewardship.

Through its hands-on approach, AHIS empowers students to actively engage with pressing environmental issues. From sustainable campus practices to student-led green initiatives, the school creates meaningful opportunities for learners to participate in real-world solutions.

Leading by Teaching: Sharing AHIS Practices with Other Schools

Al Hekma not only implements sustainability within its own community but also plays an active role in educating and inspiring other schools in Bahrain and beyond. By opening its doors to visitors, sharing best practices through workshops and exhibitions, and participating in national sustainability networks, AHIS serves as a mentor and model for institutions seeking to develop their own sustainability programs. As part of its commitment to collaboration, AHIS has hosted school tours, shared its Permaculture Garden framework, and presented student-led environmental innovations at national summits and regional forums. These efforts have helped establish a strong educator-to-educator ecosystem, where knowledge is transferred and amplified across school communities.

Transdisciplinary and Experiential Learning

At AHIS, sustainability is not confined to a single subject; it is embedded across disciplines through transdisciplinary learning. Students engage with sustainability concepts in science, business, literature, art, and technology. Whether designing eco-solutions in STREAM classes, analyzing environmental data in math, debating climate policy in social studies, or expressing conservation messages through creative writing and art, AHIS students are immersed in authentic, interconnected experiences. This approach ensures students don’t just learn about sustainability, they live it, connecting knowledge to action and developing the mindset to become future innovators and changemakers.

Hands-On Projects and Recognized Impact

AHIS promotes real-world engagement through award-winning sustainability projects. One of the school’s signature initiatives is its Permaculture Educational Garden, which earned second place at the Bahrain International Garden Show 2025 among all private schools. This garden is a living classroom where students explore organic agriculture, water conservation, biodiversity, and food security through hands-on learning.

In addition to the outdoor garden, AHIS proudly houses a dedicated school greenhouse, where students experiment with modern, sustainable farming techniques. These include:

•    Vertical farming

•    Hydroponics

•    Aeroponics

•    Aquaponics

These innovative methods not only align with 21st-century agricultural trends but also allow students to understand how to grow food sustainably with minimal land, water, and energy use. Through experimentation and reflection, students gain deep insights into climate-smart agriculture and future-ready farming solutions, experiences that directly link classroom learning with real-world environmental impact.

Further reinforcing its leadership in environmental education, AHIS was also selected to participate in the prestigious Maraee Agricultural Exhibition, where students presented these sustainable agriculture projects, receiving wide recognition for their innovation and environmental awareness.

A Culture of Global Environmental Action

Sustainability at AHIS is not limited to local initiatives; it is also reflected in the school’s active participation in global environmental campaigns, including

•    Earth Hour

•    Earth Day

•    World Water Day

•    World Environment Day These events are embedded into the school calendar with meaningful activities that raise awareness and empower students to take action beyond the classroom. In recognition of its impactful initiatives, AHIS was featured on CNN’s official website for its participation in Call to Earth Day, highlighting the school’s commitment to the planet and its integration of environmental education into everyday practice.

Aligned with National and Global Goals

AHIS is fully aligned with Bahrain Vision 2030, the Bahrain Blueprint 2060, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring its curriculum, values, and initiatives are globally connected and future-focused. Through its STREAM and sustainability programs, the school promotes climate literacy, innovation, and leadership across grade levels.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, the need for sustainable, future-focused education is more vital than ever. Al Hekma International School continues to lead by example, not only preparing students to succeed academically but also empowering them to be ethical, informed, and proactive global citizens. With a strong foundation in transdisciplinary learning, real-world applications, and community impact, AHIS isn’t just teaching students about sustainability; it’s preparing them to shape a sustainable future—for Bahrain, the region, and the world.

Written by Rasha Al Najjar, Assistant Principal Al Hekma International School