Arts-based textbooks planned for primary schools

BNP-led government is planning to introduce arts and culture-based textbooks in primary schools as part of broader efforts to modernise the education system and nurture well-rounded students, State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj has said on Wednesday.

He said the education system would be developed in line with the government’s election manifesto and the education vision of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, enabling students to become global citizens while acquiring practical skills for their future careers, speaking at a views-exchange meeting organised by the ministry.

The meeting focused on expanding music, dance and cultural education in primary schools, developing a new curriculum and producing skilled teachers for these disciplines. Teachers and experts from the departments of music, dance, drama and fine arts of various universities participated in the discussion.

Bobby Hajjaj said greater emphasis on music, dance, sports and cultural activities at the primary level would create a growing demand for specialised teachers and instructors in the coming years.

He noted that the initiative would generate employment opportunities for graduates in music, dance, fine arts, drama and sports, while helping establish sustainable career paths in these fields.

He projected that approximately 50,000 to 60,000 new jobs would be created in the sector over the next five years.

Seeking cooperation from the universities, Bobby Hajjaj said, “We want your students to have the opportunity to join primary schools as teachers in the future.

He further said that the government aims to establish music, drama and dance not merely as extracurricular activities but as important components of students’ overall development. Alongside the curriculum reform, plans are already being formulated to ensure the development of qualified teachers in these disciplines.

The meeting was attended by the secretary of the ministry Md Sakhwat Hoosain and chairpersons of relevant departments from 24 universities and other ministry officials.

According to the ministry, the Arts and Culture based textbook for Grade 4, scheduled to be introduced in 2027, will include four chapters covering fine and applied arts, music, dance and drama. These subjects are expected to be fully integrated into the new national curriculum in 2028.