World Teachers’ Day 2025 - LIONSROCK Celebrates South African Educators Who Inspire Compassion and Conservation

Empowering the next generation through animal welfare education and community leadership

Bethlehem, 02 October 2025 — In celebration of World Teachers’ Day on 05 October, LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary is honouring all educators who go beyond the classroom to instil values of empathy, responsibility, and environmental stewardship. The sanctuary recently welcomed learners from Caritas College and Thebe Public School, showcasing how experiential learning can ignite a lifelong commitment to caring for animals and the planet.

Located just outside Bethlehem, LIONSROCK is home to nearly 100 rescued big cats from around the world. Operated by global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS, the sanctuary offers a safe haven for lions, tigers, and leopards rescued from captivity and abuse, while also serving as a hub for animal welfare education.

Sarina Labuschagne, principal of Caritas College, shared her passion for leadership development: “We need to raise the next generation to care for our communities and our environment. Our collaboration with LIONSROCK is helping us do just that.”

Thebe Public School from Mamafubedu brought 28 learners, some as young as six, to experience the sanctuary’s educational programme. A teacher from the school explained: “It was important for them to come here so they can see different wild animals and understand the importance of caring for them. The knowledge they gain here helps them see how animals are fed, protected and rescued from harm.”

The visit gave learners a firsthand look at how LIONSROCK rehabilitates animals rescued from circuses, zoos, and private ownership. “LIONSROCK takes care of those animals, bringing them from places where they’re hurt or not fed, and gives them a safe home,” the teacher added.

Hildegard Pirker, Sanctuary Manager, reflected on the deeper purpose of education: “Education is not just about knowledge, it’s about awakening kindness, responsibility, and the courage to act. When we teach children to care for animals, we teach them to care for the world.”

LIONSROCK continues to welcome schools from across the country to engage with its educational programmes. The sanctuary invites educators to explore as a powerful extension of classroom learning, one that fosters empathy, critical thinking and a deeper respect for all living beings. Join LIONSROCK in shaping a generation that values compassion over exploitation.

For more information, please visit our website at www.lionsrock.org