The government has announced a major initiative to reform
primary education by incorporating arts and cultural activities into the
curriculum to promote creativity and holistic development among students.
Speaking at a meeting at the Ministry of Primary and Mass
Education on Wednesday, State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby
Hajjaj said that music, drama, dance, and fine arts and crafts will gradually
be integrated into primary education.
According to the ministry, a new textbook titled Arts and
Culture will be introduced for fourth-grade students from 2027. The book will
include four key components: arts and crafts, music, dance, and drama. Plans
are also underway to fully incorporate these subjects into the primary
education curriculum by 2028.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader vision
to develop students into globally competitive citizens equipped with diverse
skills for the future. Officials believe that arts, culture, and sports-based
education can play a significant role in the physical, mental, and creative
development of children.
The state minister said the introduction of these subjects
would also create new employment opportunities for graduates in related fields.
A substantial number of specialized teachers and trainers will be required in
primary schools, potentially generating between 50,000 and 60,000 jobs over the
next five years.
He added that discussions are being held with universities
to prepare graduates for these opportunities. The government is considering
incorporating teaching-related training and preparatory modules into the
curricula of music, dance, fine arts, and drama departments to help graduates
qualify for teaching positions in primary schools.
Education experts have welcomed the initiative, saying it
could foster greater creativity among students and mark a significant step
forward in modernizing the country’s primary education system.
