The Significance of Art Education in Ghanaian Schools and its Impact on Social Progress

Abstract

It has been Ghana’s aim to achieve ultimate, individual, social and cultural development in tune with its philosophy of self –reliance. This has not been indeed possible because of the failing standard of education for the past two decades. This paper asserts that if Ghanaians should develop as such, then Art Education, which is one of the many facets in education, should be appraised.

The paper discusses Ghana’s attempt to salvage the falling standard of education by embarking upon reforms at all levels of education. It explains the concepts ‘Art’, ‘Education’, ‘Art Education’, ‘Ghana’s Education Policy’ and the ‘Philosophy of Self-Reliance’. It also outlines and explains the relevance of educating people in the arts in Ghanaian schools in tune with its education policy and philosophy of self-reliance.

The paper further expounds on the various ways Art Education would impact on the social progress of Ghana if Art Education were taken more seriously in schools. It concludes by expressing concern about attitudes of parents, teachers, the government and the society at large towards Art Education and urges strongly that if Ghana wants to develop it should do so in terms of its Art and Culture.