Kampala — In an effort to increase production and the tourism industry in the country, the Uganda National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) has introduced Animal Welfare Education in the national curriculum for schools.

Connie Kateeba, the director of NCDC, says it is aimed at giving children more knowledge about the protection of all animals and environment.

Kateeba says the new programme will guide people on how to live in harmony with both domestic and wild animals in the same environment for improved benefits.

"Animal welfare involves both wild and domestic animals We want people, especially children, to learn how to leave with these animals in peace. It will also promote culture among our communities once these animals are protected," she says. Kateeba notes that people, who would have gone through the education system, will be equipped with more knowledge and skills to love and take care of animals in a healthier environment.

"Research shows that the way one relates with animals is the same way he or she relates with fellow humans. This will promote fine morals among our people," she explains.

The subjects will be taught in primary, secondary schools and tertiary institutions. She says they have carried out sensitisation workshops with curriculum developers and experts from Makerere University and stakeholders from wildlife organisations.

"We need to identify subjects to carry out animal care and the materials to be developed in this programme," she says.

Kateeba says the idea was developed by NCDC and World Society for Protection of Animals to protect animals.

The coordinator upper primary curriculum, Gabriel Obbo, says the programme will be incorporated into the current curriculum review.

"Many people have been injuring and killing animals due to limited knowledge about their importance in society and environment," he says.

Prof. John David Kabasa of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Makerere University, says the subject will promote the protection of both animals and the environment.