In Georgian schools, a new academic year is about to begin. This time of year always sparks conversations about the quality of education and the skills children need to develop. Denmark, often considered one of the happiest countries in the world, has approached this issue from a completely different angle. For over 30 years, they have made empathy lessons a mandatory subject in their schools.
Since 1993, Danish schools have dedicated a weekly class to emotional intelligence, empathy, and social connection. This practice has long been a focus of international attention. But how does this approach work, and why is it so effective in terms of both happiness and academic success?
“Klassens tid” or “The Class’s Hour” is a unique subject. Unlike traditional academic lessons, this hour is entirely dedicated to open dialogue, sharing emotions, and collectively resolving conflicts. Teachers encourage students to express their feelings freely, find solutions to problems together, and strengthen trust among themselves.
This approach is based on the Scandinavian belief that emotional intelligence is just as important as intellectual development. By fostering empathy, schools promote not only academic success but also the development of social skills that will determine their well-being throughout life.
During the lesson, students sit in a circle and talk about personal challenges, successes, or simply share their feelings with one another. A safe and welcoming environment is created in the classroom, which helps children learn self-awareness and empathy for others. The teacher is no longer a strict authority figure but a guide who creates an environment of equality and mutual respect.
“In Denmark, empathy is not just a soft skill; it is a cornerstone of our educational philosophy,” says the Danish Minister of Education.
Denmark’s consistently high ranking on the happiness index is directly linked to the teaching of empathy. According to research, children who master emotional intelligence from an early age become more resilient, collaborative, and successful, both in and out of school.
This approach also harmoniously blends with Danish culture, including their characteristic “hygge”—a feeling of comfort, warmth, and togetherness. Children are taught from a young age the importance of relationships and emotional health, which reinforces social trust and cohesion.
Amidst growing global mental health challenges, many countries are looking to Denmark with interest. Scandinavian countries have long prioritized social-emotional learning, but Denmark’s national program stands out for both its duration and results. Here, the empathy lesson is mandatory for all students aged 6 to 16 and has been part of the national curriculum for more than 25 years.
Despite this successful example, the global implementation of empathy as a subject has not been easy. Difficulties arise from cultural differences, limited resources, and varying educational priorities. However, more and more countries are realizing that emotional intelligence is the foundation of happiness and success.
International organizations and education experts are increasingly calling for the implementation of similar programs, and Denmark’s example has become proof that happiness and academic achievement must be developed simultaneously.
Denmark has proven that teaching empathy is not just a trend but a transformative educational innovation that yields long-term benefits. By prioritizing emotional intelligence, schools have created a foundation for a lifetime of happiness and social harmony.
Denmark has shown us that teaching empathy contributes not only to the personal development of children but to the happiness of the entire society. Now, as the new school year begins in Georgia, it is important for Georgian schools to also consider how emotional intelligence can become a part of education. Perhaps this example will be taken into account by the Ministry of Education, and in the future, the happiness of Georgian children will be cared for in this way.
A future where education embraces empathy and human relationships may become the answer to the growing global mental health challenges. Denmark’s experience shows us the way.
