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“Just like sport, arts can be a job that can change your lifestyle. Children should take it seriously,” she said.
“It is true that some people are not academically gifted – so arts can be a substitution. We have soccer players, actors and musicians among others who are making a living through the arts” said the Chipawo manager.
Chipo also thanked the hosting organisation, saying the platform was an opportunity to showcase talented youth, while giving them a platform to learn new things.
Chipawo Zimbabwe representatives also took the opportunity to teach the Namibian teenagers drum-beating skills, dance choreography and stage management.
Chinamibia Arts Education for Development chairperson Kapenangutjiwa Vetira said the purpose of the workshop was to raise awareness of music and dance so that it can be appreciated.
“The situation here in Namibia is different as arts as a subject was banned in schools as many people regard it as a job for failures, and those who have nothing to do.
We have just started Chinamibia so that we teach dance, music and drama to children so that they grow up knowing different cultures,” she said.
Kapenangutjiwa, who was bitter about the banning of arts as a subject in schools, supported the notion that arts can be a source of income, sustaining livelihoods and developing the nation.
“Look at Nigeria; they are known best for their Nollywood. Many teenagers idolise Nigerian actors, likewise we can make our own prominent actors, musicians who can carry our flag high. It is not only about sport. A lot of children are talented but they lack opportunities to showcase their talents,” she said.
She said Namibians needed to appreciate and support the arts. “I urge all parents to support their children when it comes to arts issues. Let us all unite, teach and learn about different cultural heritage, developing the nation,” she noted.
Meanwhile, Silvanus Malgas aged 14, from Cosmos High School who learned how to beat the drum said it was an exciting experience.
“Growing up I loved drums. I want to know more about the drum-beating and I love the arts,” he said.
Sixteen-year-old Uapita Mate of Windhoek Technical High School said arts subjects should be compulsory.
“If the Ministry of Education can bring back the arts subjects in our curriculum we would be happy. We will not all pass but if we have arts subjects some might pursue a career in the arts,” she said.
Uapita said the arts bring out the inner being.
“I started doing drums this year regardless of being a girl, it is fun and energetic,” she said.
The one-week-long workshop which is being held at Katutura Community Arts Centre, ends tomorrow. It brought together students from different schools and backgrounds. Chinamibia is a branch of Chipawo.
Online Reporter