Education Ministry directs educational institutions to establish art & culture rooms

Islamabad : The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training (MOFE, PT) has instructed the educational institutions operating under the ambit of the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) to set up specialised ‘Art and Cultural Rooms’ within their campuses.

Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, secretary of Federal Education and Professional Training, issued the directions to the principals. Dr Rahima Rehman, president of Federal Government College Teachers Association believes that this move not only nurtures creativity but also instil a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures within Pakistan. She said that the art and cultural rooms aim to provide a platform for students to exhibit their artistic talents and cultural creations. They will serve as dynamic spaces where students can immerse themselves in diverse cultural heritage, explore a variety of art forms, delve into history, and explore poetry from various regions of the country.”

However, there are concerns among educators regarding the dwindling interest of students in extracurricular activities. An associate professor at Islamabad Model Postgraduate College, H-8 highlighted the pervasive influence of digital distractions such as the internet, mobile phones, and social media. He noted that many students prefer spending their spare time chatting online rather than participating in drama or literary clubs. "The students have lost interest in extracurricular activities due to excessive use of the internet, mobile phones, and social media," the associate professor stated. "It will be an uphill task to divert them into art and cultural activities."

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, an assistant professor at Islamabad Model College for Boys said, "The art and literary clubs offer a platform for young individuals to explore their talents in debates, dramas, and poetry. Engaging in drama and literature cultivates positive thinking and fosters the development of better citizens within society. It's worth noting that many television actors and actresses kick-started their careers through college stage shows. However, there's been a noticeable decline in student participation in drama and literary clubs compared to previous years."

A female college teacher expressed her concern over the declining trend of dramatic societies and literary clubs in educational institutions, noting that these organisations once served as breeding grounds for budding artists and writers. She lamented the current lack of interest among students in extracurricular activities, attributing it to various factors. According to her, the absence of art and literary clubs in colleges has deprived students of platforms to express themselves creatively.