By Christine Reix (Veterinary Resources Advisor)
03 Dec 2010

E. Boija from The Donkey Sanctuary in Ethiopia, talked of the success of education programmes they had run for school children. They used education classes, along with more creative techniques such as poems, songs, and drama. Around 1000 children aged 10-14 years old have experienced these animal welfare sessions to increase their empathy with working horses, donkeys and mules.

As a result children are spreading the word to family members and neighbours, which has led to an increase in the numbers of donkeys presented for treatment at the veterinary clinic.

The next talk, given by Andy Stringer, Veterinary Director at Spana, was based on a study he undertook in Ethiopia, looking at the effective transfer of knowledge to children.

The final day ended with further exploration of some of the issues discussed earlier in the week and concluded with Major General Peter Davies, chairman of the Brooke, thanking all those involved in organising the colloquium, and the speakers and delegates for being such active participants.