Climate governance and the greening of Teachers’ Colleges in Jamaica

Presentation Climate governance and the greening of Teachers’ Colleges in Jamaica, Dr. Claudette L. Barrett-March (Shortwood Teachers' College).

The climate crisis presents a profound challenge for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) such as Jamaica, where geographic vulnerability, economic dependence, and infrastructural limitations amplify the need for systemic action.

This paper examines the “greening” of Jamaican teachers’ colleges, exploring institutional, curricular, and pedagogical initiatives, and situating these within broader climate governance frameworks. Findings revealed that students drive practical sustainability actions, while faculty and administrators often face structural and policy barriers. Limited resources, cost constraints, change resistance inconsistent leadership, and gaps between policy ambition and implementation persist, highlighting a persistent attitude–behaviour gap in environmental engagement.

Claudette L. Barrett-March is a Vice Principal at her alma mater Shortwood Teachers’ College, Kingston, Jamaica and is proud to have served in the position of acting Principal for 2 years. She has been an Educator for over 40 years with 32 of these years served in teacher education. Dr. Barrett-March holds a PhD in Leadership, a Master of Arts in Science Education, a Bachelor of Education (Honors) in Science, Certificate of Achievement in Techniques and Practices of Project Management (TPPM) and Certificate of Achievement in Managing online education. Claudette is a published researcher and has presented papers at several conferences locally and internationally.