Empathy Through Feathers: Romanian Schools Use Animals to Combat Bullying

In Romania, 20 schools in Ilfov are incorporating animal awareness classes to cultivate empathy and combat bullying. Students interact with rescue animals, fostering compassion and improving engagement. The initiative addresses Romania's high school drop-out rates and educational investment challenges.

On a crisp November morning, veterinarian Oana Vasiliu arrived at a village school near Bucharest with rescue animals: a hen named Rodica and a duck called Bubbles. Students eagerly fed them spinach and insects, their excitement palpable.

This school is among 20 in Ilfov pioneering an animal awareness class aimed at boosting empathy and learning while combatting bullying. Students visit animal shelters and interact with animals like a three-legged dog and a one-eyed cat. Such encounters evoke empathy, say organizers.

"We hope children become more empathetic towards humans too," noted Raluca Baleanu, animal protection adviser. Despite high drop-out rates, this initiative sees promising results, with coordinator Sorin Sirbeanu noting improved learning and engagement.

(With inputs from agencies.)