TOWARDS A CLOSER INTEGRATION OF GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION AND SOCIAL STUDIES: A STRATEGIC APPROACH FOR ENHANCING MULTICULTURAL UNDERSTANDING AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN NIGERIAN UNIVERSITIES

Abstract

This study examined the integration of Global Citizenship Education (GCE) in Social Studies in enhancing multicultural understanding among undergraduate students in the Universities in Delta State. The study was carried out in Delta State University, Abraka and University of Delta, Agbor. A descriptive survey research design was employed, with a population of 100 undergraduate students. Using a purposive sampling technique, 100 students were selected to participate in the study. The study was guided by three research questions and three hypotheses.  Data was collected through a structured questionnaire designed to measure students' exposure to GCE concepts and their impact on multicultural understanding. The research questions were answered using mean and standard deviation while the hypotheses were analyzed with t-test and chi-square. The findings revealed that the integration of GCE in Social Studies significantly enhances students’ awareness and appreciation of cultural diversity, promoting tolerance, empathy, and global perspectives. However, the study also identified challenges such as insufficient instructional resources and inadequate teacher preparedness for delivering GCE content effectively.  Based on these findings, the study recommends enhanced teacher training programs, the development of GCE-specific curriculum resources, and increased institutional support for implementing GCE initiatives. These measures are vital to maximize the potential of GCE in fostering multicultural understanding and preparing students for the complexities of a globalized society