Kathmandu's Mayor Balen Shah has underscored the significance of art in education, particularly for students attending community schools. In a recent statement, Mayor Shah highlighted how students are discovering life's vibrant hues through disciplines like painting and sculpture.
The "Art in Education" initiative, initiated by the Kathmandu Education Department from Baisakh 12, has been instrumental in assessing the creative prowess of students in Grades 9 and 10. Mayor Shah expressed satisfaction with the program's outcomes, noting that it effectively showcases students practical and imaginative endeavors.
Furthermore, Mayor Shah suggested that students who receive artistic training in schools could contribute to community-driven programs, such as one initiative per ward. He specifically mentioned the potential for aligning pottery-making activities with local commercial production initiatives, fostering a sense of entrepreneurship among students.
Engineer Shailendra Jha, a member of the Kathmandu Urban Planning Commission, elaborated on the inclusive approach of the program. Based on criteria such as student enrollment, interest levels, and school environment, students from Grades 4 to 8 have been organized into "one school, one child" groups, with several subgroups formed to cater to diverse interests and talents.
Under the "Art in Education" program, tailored to students in Grades 9 and 10, ten methodologies were introduced. Notably, in subjects like Sketching and Sculpture, students underwent a comprehensive 90-hour training program to showcase their artwork.
The initiative saw active participation from 19 groups of students representing nine schools, including prominent institutions like Viswa Niketan, Ratna Rajya, and Gyanodaya. Through their creations, students explored a myriad of themes ranging from daily life to nature, demonstrating their artistic flair and cultural diversity.
