OPINION: BUATRE George -An Educationist/Practicing Journalist 

As I pen this opinion piece, I am filled with a deep sense of concern and dismay at the potential fate that awaits our arts teachers in Uganda. The recent proposal to remove arts from the primary school curriculum has sparked a heated debate, and as an advocate for education and the arts, I strongly believe that this move would be a catastrophic mistake. In this piece, I will highlight the importance of arts education, the potential consequences of its removal, and the legal framework that supports the rights of arts teachers.

Arts education is not merely an extracurricular activity; it is an integral part of a well-rounded education that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The arts - music, dance, drama, and visual arts - provide a platform for students to express themselves, build confidence, and develop their imagination. By incorporating arts into the curriculum, students can develop a more nuanced understanding of the world around them and cultivate empathy and cultural awareness.

If the government proceeds with its proposal to remove arts from the primary school curriculum, the consequences would be far-reaching and devastating. Firstly, arts teachers would be left without employment, leading to a loss of livelihoods and a blow to the education sector. Secondly, students would be deprived of a vital component of their education, stifling their creativity and potential. This would have long-term effects on the country's development, as arts education plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of innovators, thinkers, and leaders.

The rights of arts teachers are protected under various Ugandan laws and international conventions. The Constitution of Uganda, Article 29 (1) (a), guarantees the right to education, while Article 40 (2) provides for the protection of workers' rights. The Education Act of 2008 emphasizes the importance of education in promoting national development and social cohesion. Furthermore, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), which Uganda has ratified, recognizes the right to education and the importance of arts and culture in education.

If the government proceeds with its proposal, it would not only harm arts teachers and students but also undermine its own development goals. By removing arts education, the government would be contradicting its own policies and commitments to providing quality education for all. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4, emphasize the importance of quality education, and the removal of arts education would be a step backward in achieving this goal.

In conclusion, I urge the government to reconsider its proposal and prioritize the importance of arts education in our schools. Arts teachers play a vital role in shaping the next generation of Ugandans, and their contributions should be valued and recognized. By protecting arts education, the government would be investing in the future of our country and promoting a more well-rounded education for our students. I hope that policymakers will take heed of this warning and work towards preserving the arts in our education system.

Recommendations 

1. Maintain Arts Education: The government should maintain arts education as an integral part of the primary school curriculum.

2. Support Arts Teachers: The government should provide support and resources to arts teachers to ensure they can continue to provide quality education to students.

3. Review Education Policy: The government should review its education policy to ensure that it aligns with international best practices and prioritizes the importance of arts education.

I strongly believe if government take these steps, the government can ensure that arts education continues to thrive in Uganda, and our students can benefit from a well-rounded education that prepares them for the challenges of the 21st century.

George Buatre is a teacher and a practicing journalist.