EVALUATING THE CONTRIBUTION OF SOCIAL STUDIES DISCIPLINE TO THE PROMOTION OF GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION IN SECONDARY SCHOOL CLASSROOM

ABSTRACT This study evaluates the contribution of the Social Studies discipline to the promotion of Global Citizenship Education (GCE) in secondary school classrooms. In a world increasingly characterized by interconnected challenges—ranging from climate change to social inequality—educating students to become informed and active global citizens has become essential. Social Studies, as a multidisciplinary subject, encompasses history, civics, geography, and economics, offering a platform to instill critical thinking, cultural awareness, and civic responsibility. The research investigates how Social Studies curricula align with the goals of GCE and examines the extent to which teachers integrate global perspectives in their lessons. Using a mixed-method approach, the study involves surveys and interviews with educators and students, alongside curriculum analysis, to explore both the opportunities and barriers in promoting global citizenship through Social Studies. Findings reveal that while Social Studies provides a foundational framework for fostering GCE competencies, challenges such as rigid curricula, lack of teacher training, and standardized testing limit its full potential. The study concludes by proposing strategies to strengthen the role of Social Studies in advancing GCE, including teacher professional development and curriculum reform. It highlights the need for policy shifts to support a more inclusive and transformative approach to education, empowering students to act as change agents in local and global contexts.