Gaborone — Government has reinstated choral music competitions for state owned and private owned primary and secondary schools starting this academic year.
Speaking at the vocal music programme launch held at Northside Primary School in Gaborone on Tuesday, Assistant Minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education, Justin Hunyepa, said the initiative comes as part of government's broader initiatives to promote arts and culture among learners.
Highlighting the benefits of the initiative, Hunyepa noted that the development supported Botswana's transition toward a STEAM-based education system, with emphasis on the Arts category.
The creative and cultural industries have significant economic potential and stand as a path way to future employment and sustainable livelihoods. Reviving choral music stands to be among government interventions that would address learners' indiscipline in schools.
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"The programme will keep learners engaged after classes and provide them with productive activities," said Hunyepa, adding that it was also intended to restore excellence in schools, strengthen discipline, preserve national identity, and contribute to the country's social and economic development.
He referenced music, sports and the revival of the scout movement, and other learner development programmes as part of government's comprehensive strategy to provide learners with lifelong skills and leadership qualities,
Hunyepa stated that a National Choral Music Technical Team had been established to oversee competitions from cluster to national level, while an invitation had been extended to teachers' unions, development partners, corporate sector and the public to support and sustain the initiative.
Minister of Sport and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng, commended the initiative, describing music as a pathway to discipline with immense power to help young people discover and develop their talents, build confidence and express themselves creatively.
He also said the platform would help provide a pathway into the creative industry for many young learners. Kelebeng extended his gratitude to the Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education, for restoring such an initiative and for recognising the value of arts education in the lives of our young people.
He pledged the support and collaboration of the Ministry of Sport and Arts in ensuring the continued growth and success of music education in schools.
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The minister shared that government was making progress in its engagements with teachers' unions on the revival of school sports.
He said the discussions were nearing completion and therefore, optimistic that the outcome would turn out positive.
BOPA
