In the aftermath of this year’s National Science and Math Quiz, where Presbyterian Boys Senior High School – Legon (PRESEC) emerged victorious for the 8th time, a comment made by the quiz mistress, Professor Elsie Effah-Kaufmann, has raised concerns.
She stated that PRESEC’s consistent success is attributed to their rigorous preparation, as opposed to other schools that she suggested might be “singing and dancing” instead of focusing on academics.
Such a comment is regrettable, as it perpetuates a damaging narrative that undervalues the creative arts and positions them as inferior to science and math. As someone who has pursued Visual Arts in both secondary school and university, I can’t help but find this perspective disheartening. In our part of the world, creatives often face challenges in gaining recognition and appreciation for their talents, and this comment only exacerbates the issue.
While Professor Effah-Kaufmann’s statement may seem harmless, it contributes to the marginalization of the creative arts. The timing of this incident provides us with an opportunity to address this issue and rectify it. It is essential to recognize that such remarks reinforce a misguided notion that undermines the significance of the arts.
As a member of the “singing and dancing” fraternity, it’s crucial that we advocate for a shift in this mindset and insist on changing the narrative around the arts. The creative arts are not mere forms of leisure but vibrant professions that provide livelihoods for countless individuals. Using them as an excuse or joke to downplay the seriousness of one’s efforts is inappropriate and unjust. In any competition, including school contests, everyone plays a vital role. Contestants, teachers, cheerleaders, janitors, drivers, and non-teaching staff all contribute to success. The same principle applies to our daily lives, where each individual’s efforts are essential in achieving shared goals.
The creative arts encompass singing, dancing, and various forms of artistic expression, and they are integral to human existence. These arts contribute not only to individual well-being but also to economic prosperity in many nations. They preserve history and breathe life into communities. Artistic creation and expression provide innovative solutions to societal challenges, enriching our lives and culture.
The arts stimulate happiness and well-being, not only at a personal level but on a societal scale. The positive impact of the creative arts extends beyond their immediate domain, fostering novel ideas, products, and innovative approaches across different industries. Art also plays a crucial role in local regeneration and has a significant impact on the tourism sector, attracting visitors and showcasing the richness of our culture. Moreover, the creative arts serve as a wellspring of inspiration for education, nurturing talent and encouraging innovation among the younger generation.
It is essential to recognize that critical thinking and creativity are not opposing forces. They are intertwined and mutually beneficial. Therefore, pitting one against the other is not only misguided but also detrimental to the comprehensive development of individuals and society as a whole.
It is vital to appreciate and celebrate the equal importance of creative arts in schools and society, rather than positioning them as less valuable than science and mathematics. These realms of knowledge complement each other, contributing uniquely to the advancement and flourishing of our society. It is time to embrace a balanced perspective that recognizes the value of both arts and sciences in education.
The author, Amelley Djosu is a versatile media and marketing communications professional, merges creativity and analytical thinking to explore diverse subjects.
Her work aims to connect the arts with various disciplines, both in writing and on-air presenting.
E-mail: [email protected]
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