Jean Kayira

Jean Kayira is an Associate Professor at SUNY-ESF and Affiliate Faculty at Antioch University New England, specializing in sustainability education, Indigenous knowledge systems, and postcolonial theory. She teaches courses like Indigenous Research Methods and Environmental Program Evaluation, while mentoring doctoral students and leading externally funded initiatives.

• PhD, Environment and Sustainability (University of Saskatchewan, 2013)
• MA, Environmental Science & Policy (Clark University, 2004)
• BEd, Science (University of Malawi, 1991)

Her research examines decolonizing methodologies, youth engagement in climate justice, and land-based education. She integrates Ubuntu/uMunthu philosophy with postcolonial theory to create culturally responsive frameworks for environmental education.

Jean’s publications focus on decolonizing pedagogies, climate change resilience, and policy analysis. Recent works explore forest bathing’s impact on adolescents’ well-being and governance practices in African mining sectors.

• Advisor Roles: Mentors doctoral students and co-advises MS candidates in Environmental Science at SUNY-ESF
• Collaborations: Works with Antioch University faculty on sustainability projects
• Committees: Served on Keene YMCA Social Justice Committee (2020-2023)