Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Gideon Nicholas Day
Published on 2024-03-29 16:23:51
The decline in music and dance education poses a threat to Ghana’s cultural identity and artistic creativity, particularly among the youth. These art forms have been deeply intertwined with Ghanaian traditions, serving as crucial channels for storytelling, spiritual expression, and community bonding. Despite their cultural significance, music and dance education are gradually being marginalized in schools, with students expressing concern about the lack of teachers specialized in these subjects.
An interview with Primary 6 students at Wajir Barracks “A” Basic School revealed their frustration with the limited exposure to music and dance education. The prioritization of academic subjects over the arts in the curriculum contributes to this decline, as schools allocate more resources and time to subjects perceived as contributing directly to academic success. As a result, music and dance are often relegated to optional or extracurricular activities, receiving minimal attention and funding.
The shortage of educators with expertise in music and dance further exacerbates the problem, leading to inadequate instruction or the absence of these subjects from the curriculum. Some teachers with little background in the arts end up teaching these courses, but their lack of expertise results in subpar instruction. Consequently, students miss out on the opportunity to develop their artistic talents and deepen their understanding of Ghanaian culture through practical learning experiences.
Efforts are being made to address these challenges, with plans to improve the teaching and learning of music and dance in schools. Godson Atsu Sorkpor, an Artistic Director of Performing Arts Intercessors and Dance Lecturer at the University of Ghana, highlighted the need for sustained support and recognition for instructors. By valuing the expertise of instructors and prioritizing arts education, Ghana can preserve its cultural heritage and foster the holistic development of its youth.
As we celebrate Ghana Month, it is essential to recommit ourselves to the preservation and promotion of our cultural heritage. Music and dance are not just subjects but the heartbeat of our nation, echoing the rhythms of our past, present, and future. Revitalizing arts education in schools will ensure that Ghana’s cultural legacy continues to thrive for generations to come.
Read Original article on Pulse News
