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Reginald Chirenje-Youth Interactive Writer
Understanding the arts stream may not be the first choice of 80 percent to 90 percent of learners, but for the students planning a career in social activism, civil services, among others, studying arts is a must.
Misconceptions deter many bright and brilliant students from opting for it.
Arts and humanities are portrayed as “mickey mouse” subjects or soft options by the people who have little understanding of the modules as a large practical component.
Youth Interaction caught up with Wesley Mupiwa, a young man aged 20, who is studying law at the University of Zimbabwe.
Wesley shared the challenges he once faced throughout his journey.
“Our society as a whole has created a very toxic stereotype and a negative mindset towards arts subjects.
“Arts and humanities are perceived to be for the weaker students and mostly will not be of any use in most cases as they are regarded not to be on demand abroad, which is not true”, said Mupiwa.
Since time immemorial, many African governments, even international spectrum, had a negative perception on arts subjects since they are deemed to be broad rebels.
Napoleon Bonaparte during his reign banned philosophy from the educational curriculum in post-revolutionary France.
“I remember the time I went to look for a vacancy for my A level at a certain school in Harare. I was asked many times if I really wanted to pursue arts looking at the quality of my results.
“Such an attitude hits me hard, because it seems as if arts are always plan B or a second option” he added.
In the modern world arts subjects are now of vital significance in different sectors.
Hence society needs to acknowledge arts and humanities subjects as a key that unlocks the intellectual dimension.
“The humanities encompass the full range of human thought and creativity which include languages, religion, philosophy and the broad spectrum of the arts in general.
Humanities education explores the commonalities and differences in self-expression that humans had exhibited through the ages and continue to demonstrate today.
“Arts and humanities have always been and will continue to be the basis of human culture, source of our own perception of different culture” said Mupiwa.
Arts and humanities are important in society as they teach analytical skills, good communication, creativity, global perspective and inspiration among other skills.
Learning through and about the arts enriches the experience of studying while at school, as well as preparing students for life after school.
Hence there’s need to introduce various programs and initiatives which empower arts students in the nation.
Online Reporter