Philenews

Students Take on the Role of Detectives – Investigating the Death of a Vulture

Published January 28, 2026, 12:15
Students Take on the Role of Detectives – Investigating the Death of a Vulture

Students in secondary education have the opportunity to participate in an innovative educational program that places them in the role of environmental crime investigators. The program, implemented by the Environmental Education and Sustainable Development Unit of the Ministry of Education and the Akrotiri Environmental Education Center, in collaboration with BirdLife Cyprus, focuses on the protection of the vulture, a species threatened with extinction. The students are called upon to investigate the causes of a vulture's death, taking an active role in analyzing the circumstances that led to it. The "On the Brink of Extinction – Vultures in Cyprus" program is part of the Darwin Local Plus project and aims to raise students' awareness of wildlife and the need for its protection. Through an interactive approach, students develop skills in collaboration, observation, and critical thinking. The simulation of a crime scene investigation in the field offers a unique learning experience, while also strengthening the understanding of the importance of protecting the vulture and its ecosystem. To participate in the program, students must submit an application through the Pedagogical Institute's electronic platform. The Akrotiri EEC is available for further information at 25826562.