The Ministry of Education and Sports has received a call to prioritize the inclusion of art and crafts in both lower and higher secondary education. This appeal, voiced by Prof. Anthony Muggaga, Principal of the College of Education and External Studies at Makerere University, urges the government to explore measures, including making the subject compulsory.
According to Prof. Muggaga, integrating Fine Art into the curriculum is essential for nurturing critical thinking skills among students. He suggests incorporating at least one term module, akin to General Paper or computer studies, to elevate the status of Fine Art within the educational framework.
Highlighting the significance of Fine Art, Prof. Muggaga emphasizes its role in cultivating a critical mindset and fostering self-expression among learners. Drawing parallels between art and therapy, he underscores how artistic activities enable individuals, including mental health patients, to articulate their thoughts and emotions.
These sentiments were expressed during the launch of the findings of the pilot report for the Visual Arts Curriculum Review. Dr. Julius Ssegantebuka from Makerere University College of Education and External Studies, the lead researcher, underscores the project’s aim to equip secondary school art and design teachers with practical skills and values relevant to the modern world.
Dr. Ssegantebuka outlines the project’s second phase, which involved trial lectures, discussions with teachers, and the revision of the curriculum to align with contemporary needs. The updated curriculum emphasizes research, group discussions, and field studies to enhance students’ learning experiences.
As the chief guest at the launch, Dr. Grace K Baguma, Director of the National Curriculum Development Center, commends the initiative for its contribution to the development of quality curricula. She acknowledges the importance of modern pedagogies that respond to societal needs in shaping education.
Additionally, Dr. Moreen Muwanga from Kyambogo University advocates for the integration of ICT (Information and Communication Technology) in the teaching of visual arts. Recognizing students’ familiarity with ICT, she emphasizes the need for educators to embrace technology to enhance teaching and learning experiences.
