The animal welfare awareness programme in Cyprus is set to grow, reaching additional schools and students, according to Agriculture Minister Christos Senekis. This announcement was made during his visit to Aglandjia’s Fourth Primary School on World Animal Day, aimed at enhancing awareness about animal protection and welfare. Environment and Animal Welfare Commissioner Ilias Myrianthous also attended the event.
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During the event, various school initiatives were showcased, along with audiovisual presentations, and students engaged in discussions. Teacher Georgia Solomou presented a project from the previous school year titled “Lessons from the Dog,” which encouraged pupils and their families to explore the needs and rights of companion animals through interactive activities.
Solomou emphasized that the goal was to extend lessons on animal care and welfare beyond the classroom and into households.
Senekis stated that the awareness programme, initiated in 2023, will be expanded in collaboration with the Environment and Animal Welfare Commissioner and the Ministry of Education. He remarked that enhancing animal protection and welfare efforts would focus on awareness, prevention, and stronger enforcement of legislation.
The objective, he noted, is to convey the message of animal welfare to more schools and students, as cultivating respect for and responsibility towards animals should start at a young age.
Myrianthous commented on the students' insightful questions, reflecting their sensitivity towards animal welfare and indicating the need for adult action to support these concerns. He pointed out the issues of stray and abused animals in Cyprus, stressing the importance of changing certain practices and attitudes.
He emphasized the collaborative nature of resolving these issues, stating that it cannot be addressed solely by local authorities, voluntary organizations, and the state, but requires citizens to acknowledge their responsibilities as well. Myrianthous asserted that enforcement would rely not only on legislation but also on individual conscience.
The event included a demonstration featuring Shelby, a guide dog for the visually impaired, who showcased her abilities to help individuals navigate their environment. Pupils learned that while Shelby is working when she wears her specialized equipment, she, like any other dog, needs leisure time outside of her duties.
At the conclusion of the event, pupils presented officials with the book Lessons from My Dog by Konstantinos Papageorgiou.