By correspondent in Ilorin .
A call has been made to parents and educators to prioritize art education in schools and homes, as it plays a crucial role in the development of creative thinking and emotional intelligence in children.
Professor Oluremi Mabel Awogbade, a Fine Art expert from the Department of Fine and Applied Arts at Kwara State University, Malete, made this assertion while delivering the 16th inaugural lecture of the university, titled “Nurturing Creative Minds, Child Development, Art Education, and National Development,” on Wednesday in Malete.
Professor Awogbade emphasized the importance of art education in nurturing children’s ability to express themselves creatively, noting that it serves as a vital tool for holistic development.
“Art education is not just about developing artistic skills; it is essential for fostering critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and social awareness in children,” she said.
She urged parents to provide their children with access to art materials and encourage creative activities at home, which would help build a nurturing environment for artistic exploration.
The professor said that the integration of well-trained teachers and modern technology in schools is key to unlocking the full potential of art education.
She advocated for schools to adopt current design software and collaborate with local artists, museums, and cultural institutions to expose students to diverse artistic experiences.
“By embracing these strategies and working collaboratively, we can nurture creative minds, foster holistic child development, and create a future generation of individuals who are imaginative, empathetic, and equipped to navigate a complex and ever-changing world.
Investing in creativity and holistic development is not only beneficial for the individual child, but also essential for building a more innovative, compassionate, and sustainable society,” Professor Awogbade added.
She called for more partnerships between schools and the community to support creative initiatives that would enhance Nigeria’s educational system and promote national development.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
