A Cultural Treasure: The Role of Arts Education in Shaping Identity and Values
By Omphile Molusi
Theatre for Young Audiences embodies cultural treasures that encapsulate values and traditions, forming the bedrock of our collective identity. In this context, Arts Education emerges as a vital component of early development, meriting prioritization in education systems. ASSITEJ South Africa has long championed this cause, now advocating for Arts and Culture Education to be recognized as a distinct cluster under the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture (DSAC).
The formative years of young people are critical. The values they internalize during this period are shaped by their experiences and exposures. If children are consistently exposed to negative influences such as crime, alcohol, and abuse, their worldview and identity are likely to be shaped by these elements, often leading them to believe these are inherent aspects of who they are. Conversely, Arts Education has the unique capacity to preserve and transmit cultural treasures, teach values, uphold traditions, and nurture a strong sense of identity.
As an Arts Teacher, I witness firsthand the transformative power of Arts Education. My students, year after year, demonstrate a profound hunger not just for learning but for self-discovery. They seek a voice that is heard, an identity that is valued, and an understanding of their place in the world. This hunger is palpable in the classroom, where unpacking the elements of storytelling often becomes a gateway to deeper self-reflection. Understanding character in a story leads to understanding oneself, prompting the essential questions: Who are we? What shapes us?
Arts Education, therefore, becomes more than a creative outlet—it is a bridge connecting the past to the present while guiding future generations. It provides platforms for young people to engage with knowledge, build leadership skills, and envision promising futures.
As we approach the 60th anniversary of the Freedom Charter, it is time to rededicate ourselves to the ideals of cultural enrichment and social justice. The Freedom Charter reminds us of its enduring relevance, particularly its declaration that “all the cultural treasures of mankind shall be open to all.” This aligns with the mission of ASSITEJ SA, which has championed access to Arts Education for years. Notably, in 2017, the ASSITEJ World Congress, hosted on the African continent for the first time, brought together representatives from over 100 countries advocating for Arts Education and access to the arts for young people.
However, the impact of arts education extends far beyond the work of a single organization. It is a vibrant and multifaceted field that permeates every corner of the country. Recognizing the significance of arts education, and establishing a dedicated cluster would be a significant step forward.
A dedicated cluster would provide arts education with a unified voice and a platform to address its specific needs and challenges. By focusing on the unique requirements of arts education, policymakers can develop targeted policies and allocate adequate resources to ensure its effective implementation. Moreover, a dedicated cluster would facilitate greater collaboration between various stakeholders, including educators, artists, and policymakers, to create a more cohesive and impactful arts education landscape.
Theatre for Young Audiences and Arts Education are not merely creative endeavours but essential pillars for cultural preservation and identity formation. They play a transformative role in shaping the values and worldviews of young people, fostering their ability to connect with their heritage while imagining a better future. Recognizing Arts Education as a distinct cluster would signify a commitment to nurturing this transformative potential. And today, the International Children’s Day, seems the ideal day to be championing this important cause!
– Omphile Molusi is a versatile Writer, Director, Producer, and Actor, who has been a longtime member of ASSITEJ SA, and has served on the board since 2021. As a published playwright with six titles and contributions, including “Theatre of the Native Tongue,” Molusi’s works like “Itsoseng” and “Cadre” have earned global acclaim. He is the chairperson of. the Board Fundraising committee.
