The Eastern Regional Chapter of the Ghana Education Service’s Cultural Education Unit came alive on September 15, 2023, as it hosted the 17th Regional Basic Schools Festival of Creative Arts and Culture in the vibrant city of Koforidua.
The event, held under the theme “The Relevance of Cultural Education to the Ghanaian Economy,” brought together pupils, students, educators, and community members to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Ghana.
Madam Ivy Asantewa Owusu, the Eastern Regional Education Director, delivered an inspiring message during the festival’s opening ceremony. She underscored the significance of incorporating Ghanaian culture into the curriculum of all schools in the country. Madam Owusu emphasized communal values, including family bonds, respect for the elderly, reverence for traditional rulers, and the cultivation of dignity and appropriate social conduct. These values, she noted, play a pivotal role in shaping the character and future of Ghanaian pupils and students. Madam Owusu urged the young participants to embrace Ghanaian culture as an invaluable gift.
Hon. Seth Kwame Acheampong, the Eastern Regional Minister, emphasized the educational and economic benefits of cultural education. He highlighted that cultural education equips individuals with a deep understanding of different forms of culture. This knowledge, he stressed, is essential for the development of skills and competencies that are highly relevant in the labor market. Hon. Acheampong emphasized that culture fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, inspiring new ideas, products, services, and business models based on cultural diversity and expressions. He concluded by stating that through cultural exposure, children are being prepared with the necessary skills and knowledge for the future.
Mr. Ntow Jonathan, the Regional Culture Coordinator, provided insights into the festival’s competitive aspect. Schools in the Eastern Region were grouped into six zones: Akropong, Koforidua, Nkawkaw, Akim Oda, Asamankese, and Kibi. Each zone competed fiercely in various cultural and artistic categories. The winning zone would earn the honor of representing the Eastern Region at the National Basic Schools Festival of Creative Arts and Culture.
Out of the spirited competition among the six zones, the Oda Zone emerged as the victor. Their outstanding performance secured their place as the Eastern Region’s representatives at the upcoming National Basic Schools Festival of Creative Arts and Culture.
The festival brought together pupils, students, teachers, and members of the traditional authority. It served as a vibrant platform for celebrating Ghana’s rich cultural heritage and its significance in education and the economy.