From Learners to Leaders

Muhammad Mohsin Hakeem
Professor, NUCB Business School

Businesses today face increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, not just for regulatory compliance but also to meet consumer expectations and drive long-term growth. One innovative way companies can foster a sustainability mindset among employees is by applying the concept of emancipatory learning through real-world case studies. This approach encourages collaborative problem-solving and active engagement with sustainability challenges. By incorporating real-world sustainability cases into employee training programs, organizations can provide a hands-on learning experience. Employees are not just presented with basic sustainability concepts; instead, they analyze actual situations, consider multiple perspectives, and propose actionable solutions. This form of experiential learning fosters a deeper understanding of complex environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues.

Companies can further strengthen this approach by partnering with educational institutions that specialize in sustainability education. Collaborative programs can offer employees opportunities to engage in case development and relevant  exercises alongside students and academic mentors. Such partnerships create a mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge, with businesses gaining innovative ideas and institutions receiving valuable insights from industry professionals. This method serves as a powerful tool for leadership development. By encouraging employees to take ownership of sustainability challenges, companies cultivate leaders who are equipped to approach sustainability challenges thoughtfully and make responsible decisions. These leaders become advocates for sustainability within their organizations, driving innovation and promoting long-term change.

Organizations that adopt this approach often see increased employee engagement and motivation. Employees feel empowered when they see their ideas contributing to real-world sustainability solutions. This sense of purpose enhances job satisfaction and retention, while also aligning the company’s values with those of its workforce. Using real-world cases for employee training transforms sustainability from a distant corporate goal into a tangible, actionable endeavor. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, preparing employees to tackle the sustainability challenges of today and tomorrow. Through collaboration and active engagement, businesses can lead the way in building a more sustainable future.

Reference

Goi, H. C., Hakeem, M. M., Frendy. (2024). Emancipatory-Based Case Development for Regional Sustainability Education. Working Paper