Building awareness of environmental protection among university students in Vietnam

Introduction. For environmental protection activities in Vietnam to be effective, a prerequisite is that the participants, including students, must have a high awareness of environmental protection. The article analyzes the current situation and proposes ample fundamental solutions to build awareness of environmental protection for students in Vietnamese universities. The object of this study is to build the awareness of protecting the natural environment among university students in Vietnam. Research methods. This study uses the method of dialectical materialism and historical materialism of Marxism – Leninism as the most general methodology. In addition, other specific methods are also used such as: Method of abstraction, generalization; Methods of document analysis; Methods of sociological investigation; Methods of investigation and interview. Data were processed using SPSS statistical software. Results. Knowledge of environmental science and environmental protection has a great and necessary role, is an indispensable factor, and is the key for each individual to step into the future life. Firstly, students have learned scientific knowledge about the environment, environmental protection, and laws on environmental protection through the following channels such as educational activities at school account for 71.9%; television channels account for 9.92. Secondly, in regard of fostering and developing students’ feelings, beliefs, spirits, aspirations, and desires for environmental protection that 71.9% of students answered that they love the poetic and majestic beauty of nature, love the homeland, love the country and Vietnamese people. Thirdly, regarding the formation of students’ attitudes toward environmental protection, that 87.64% of students responded with great interest and 4.44% of students were concerned with the depletion of natural resources, pollution, environmental crisis, climate change, drought, and saltwater intrusion of the country and the locality. Finally, concerning students’ actions in environmental protection, that 87.08% of students confirmed that they will participate in planting trees and will voluntarily comply with regulations on hygiene and environmental protection. They should act together “for the green of the homeland”. Practical significance. This study provided a scientific evidence for the Education and Training sector in planning environmental education awareness programs for students – the future owners of the country. The topic can be used as a reliable reference in research, teaching, learning and practical direction around the education of environmental protection consciousness for university students in Vietnam today.