Sustainability education and resource curse control in the selected resource-rich economies

Abstract

The “resource curse” paradoxically impacts countries abundant in natural resources, presenting challenges despite their apparent benefits. In 20 such economies, the focus has shifted to using sustainability measures to address this curse, analyzed through Cross-Sectional Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares. Between 1999 and 2018, sustainable education proved essential in mitigating resource curse vulnerabilities. For instance, a 1% rise in primary school enrollment correlates with a 0.16 decrease in the Resource Curse Vulnerability Index, aiding economic diversification. Similarly, a 1% increase in state education investment leads to a 0.54% reduction in the index, improving human capital and governance. However, higher inflation exacerbates vulnerability, while trade liberalization reduces dependence on resources. Increased electricity consumption and internet access may intensify risks. Effective policies should focus on increasing education investment, supporting Education for Sustainable Development, enhancing media advocacy, promoting renewable energy, and advancing sustainable digital transformation.