The government is expected to create around 50,000 to 60,000 new jobs over the next five years through the expansion of music, dance, fine arts, theatre and sports-based education at the primary level.
The jobs will go to youths trained in these creative and cultural fields, establishing a sustainable career pathway.
State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj made the remarks at a consultation meeting organised by the ministry on Wednesday.
He said this initiative aligns with the government’s election manifesto and the educational philosophy declared by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
The session brought together experts and faculty members from music, dance, theatre and fine arts departments of various universities. They discussed expansion of cultural education, curriculum development and the recruitment of skilled teachers.
The state minister said the expansion of arts and sports-based education at primary level will require a significant number of specialised teachers and instructors.
Seeking cooperation from universities, he said students should be given the opportunity to join primary schools as educators.
He stressed the need for collaboration to design proper training and integrate teaching preparation into university curriculum to develop skilled teachers.
“We want to establish music, theatre and dance not merely as co-curricular activities, but as a vital component of the overall development of students,” the state minister said. He added that planning for curriculum development and teacher training is already underway.
According to the ministry, the “Arts and Culture” textbook for Class IV will include four chapters covering arts and crafts, music, dance and theatre from 2027. These subjects will be fully integrated into the curriculum by 2028.
The meeting was attended by the Primary and Mass Education secretary, chairmen of relevant departments from 24 universities and senior ministry officials.
