Title: The role of Tunisian universities in managing sustainable innovation: contribution of art and craft institutes in combating environmental degradation

Authors: Wissem Ben Chikha

Addresses: Institut Supérieur d'Arts et Métiers de Kasserine, Avenue de l'Environnement, 1200 Kasserine, Tunisia

Abstract: In the face of the environmental crisis, education is a key lever for preparing future generations to tackle sustainability challenges. This study examines the integration of sustainability concepts into the curricula of art and craft institutes, focusing on practical teaching tools, sustainable policies, and interdisciplinary collaboration between arts and technology to develop innovative solutions. Through a PLS-SEM analysis of 149 students, the findings reveal that practical tools enhance their engagement and understanding of environmental issues, thereby facilitating the application of sustainability concepts. While the impact of sustainable policies is less pronounced, they remain crucial in steering education toward meaningful change. This study also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and urges institutions to prioritise sustainability in art education to better equip students for future ecological challenges.

Keywords: sustainable innovation; Tunisian universities; arts and crafts; environmental degradation; educational strategies; environmental sustainability.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTTC.2025.146541

International Journal of Technology Transfer and Commercialisation, 2025 Vol.21 No.3, pp.219 - 238

Received: 02 Jan 2025
Accepted: 20 Feb 2025
Published online: 02 Jun 2025 *

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