Background of the Study
Moral education in primary schools has increasingly become a critical platform for fostering values that extend beyond human interactions to include a respect for animal rights and welfare. In Yola North LGA, Adamawa State, primary education curricula are progressively incorporating ethical discussions that underscore the intrinsic value of all living beings. This initiative is aligned with global trends that recognize the ethical treatment of animals as integral to societal progress (Ibrahim, 2023). Integrating moral education with a focus on animal rights encourages students to develop empathy and responsibility not only towards their peers but also towards the environment and non-human life forms (Oluwole, 2024). Educators in the region are increasingly adopting participatory methods that blend theoretical knowledge with practical experiences such as visits to animal sanctuaries and interactive sessions with animal welfare experts (Adeniran, 2025).
The incorporation of these themes is viewed as a response to growing concerns about animal cruelty and the ethical implications of human actions on animal habitats. Researchers argue that early exposure to ethical considerations regarding animal welfare can shape attitudes and behaviors that persist into adulthood (Fatima, 2023). In addition, moral education that addresses animal rights is seen as vital in nurturing a generation that values biodiversity and practices sustainable coexistence with nature (Bassey, 2024). As animal welfare issues become more prominent in public discourse, particularly in the context of environmental conservation and climate change, the relevance of moral education in this area is further accentuated (Chukwu, 2025). Despite these positive developments, challenges remain regarding the depth of curriculum integration and the training of educators to address such specialized topics effectively. Thus, this study seeks to critically explore the influence of moral education on shaping students’ attitudes towards animal rights, with an emphasis on understanding both the potentials and constraints inherent in the current pedagogical approaches (Jibril, 2024). This investigation aims to provide insights that can help refine educational practices and policy guidelines, ensuring that moral education fosters a well-rounded ethical consciousness that extends to the welfare of animals.
Statement of the Problem
While moral education aimed at promoting animal rights and welfare has been integrated into primary school curricula in Yola North LGA, Adamawa State, several challenges hinder its optimal effectiveness. Preliminary observations indicate that although the curriculum emphasizes ethical treatment of animals, the practical understanding and internalization of these values among students vary considerably (Emeka, 2023). One notable issue is the insufficient training of educators in specialized topics related to animal welfare, which often results in superficial coverage of complex ethical issues (Nwankwo, 2024). Moreover, limited access to experiential learning opportunities, such as field trips or interactions with animal welfare organizations, restricts the students’ ability to translate theoretical knowledge into practical empathy (Ikechukwu, 2025).
The problem is compounded by cultural beliefs and traditional practices that sometimes conflict with modern animal rights perspectives, creating cognitive dissonance among young learners (Yusuf, 2023). This dissonance is further exacerbated by inadequate parental involvement and community support, which are essential for reinforcing the values taught in schools (Chinwe, 2024). Consequently, the divergence between curricular intentions and practical outcomes raises concerns about the overall efficacy of moral education in cultivating respectful attitudes towards animal rights. Addressing these discrepancies requires a comprehensive examination of curriculum content, pedagogical strategies, and external influences that may impede the effective internalization of animal welfare ethics (Adebayo, 2025). This study will thus explore the multifaceted factors contributing to the limited impact of moral education on students’ attitudes towards animal rights, aiming to identify targeted interventions that can enhance both teacher competence and student engagement in this crucial area.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the effectiveness of moral education in shaping attitudes towards animal rights.
2. To identify gaps in teacher training regarding animal welfare topics.
3. To recommend strategies for enhancing experiential learning in animal rights education.
Research Questions
1. How do current moral education curricula influence students’ attitudes towards animal rights?
2. What are the primary challenges faced by teachers in delivering animal welfare content?
3. Which interventions can improve the practical understanding of animal rights among students?
Research Hypotheses
1. Moral education significantly improves students’ empathy towards animals.
2. Enhanced teacher training leads to better delivery of animal welfare content.
3. Experiential learning opportunities positively moderate students’ attitudes towards animal rights.
Significance of the Study
This study is crucial in highlighting the role of moral education in developing ethical attitudes towards animal rights among primary school students. The research provides actionable insights into curriculum design and teacher training, ultimately aiming to foster a generation that values animal welfare. The outcomes will assist policymakers, educators, and stakeholders in implementing improved educational strategies that bridge theoretical knowledge and practical empathy towards animals, thereby promoting broader societal change in ethical treatment of non-human life (Eze, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is confined to examining the impact of moral education on students’ attitudes towards animal rights and welfare in primary schools in Yola North LGA, Adamawa State. It is limited by the geographic focus and available resources within the selected schools.
Definitions of Terms
1. Moral Education: The process of teaching ethical values and principles.
2. Animal Rights: The concept that non-human animals are entitled to certain moral considerations.
3. Welfare: The state of well-being of animals, encompassing health, happiness, and proper treatment.
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