ABSTRACT VIEW
Abstract NUM 2788

ENERGY LITERACY AND PROFESSIONAL PERCEPTIONS AMONG MEXICAN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
O. Martínez Cidel
Instituto Politécnico Nacional (MEXICO)
This study diagnosed the level of energy literacy and analyzed career perceptions in the energy sector among Mexican university students in Social Sciences and Administration. In a context of global energy transition, understanding the knowledge and attitudes of future decision-makers in these fields is crucial. A quantitative, cross-sectional methodology was employed, using a structured online questionnaire distributed to a non-probabilistic sample of 90 undergraduate students from Administration and Sociology programs in public and private universities across Mexico.
The instrument measured factual knowledge on energy concepts, attitudes towards different energy sources, the influence of information sources, and perceptions of professional opportunities in the energy sector. Results revealed a moderate-to-low level of energy literacy, with 72% of participants unable to correctly define the concept of "energy transition." A strong reliance on social media for information was identified, correlating with more polarized attitudes. While 85% of students recognized the strategic importance of the energy sector for the country, only 22% considered it a viable and attractive career path, highlighting a significant perception gap. This disconnect was more pronounced among Sociology students compared to their Administration peers.
The findings underscore an urgent need to integrate energy literacy and sustainability modules into the curricula of social sciences and administrative programs. This educational innovation is essential to equip future professionals with the interdisciplinary knowledge required to actively and critically participate in the complex socio-energy challenges of the 21st century.

Keywords: Energy Awareness, Mexican Youth, Social Perception, Career Aspirations, Energy Sector.

Event: ICERI2025
Session: Challenges in Education and Research
Session time: Tuesday, 11th of November from 15:00 to 18:30
Session type: POSTER