Culture minister emphasizes importance of arts in education system
Iranian Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Mohammad-Mehdi Esmaeili underscored the significance of enhancing artistic education within the educational system.
Esmaeili made the statement on the sidelines of the 98th session of the Arts Council, held on January 29, adding that an agreement has been signed with the Ministry of Education in this regard.
Esmaeili discussed the decision to initiate a mentorship program instead of the current semester-based system at Farshchian University of Islamic-Iranian Arts, IRNA wrote.
Regarding art education in schools, Esmaeili stated, “In the field of education, we need serious attention to the issue of arts.”
The minister elaborated, “Art in the Ministry of Education has three crucial dimensions: Formal education from elementary to high school; cultural and educational centers; and the Institute for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults, alongside additional capacities such as art schools.”
Esmaeili expressed concern for the advancement of artistic education and emphasized the necessity of devising a comprehensive arts document within the education system.
He called for collaboration from the Arts Council secretary and other officials, identifying the significant role of educational capacities in achieving the council’s objectives.
Highlighting achievements in the field of music, Esmaeili stated, “Our approach is to award top artistic honors in festivals, a practice not very common in the past.”
Mohammad Khazaei, the head of the Cinema Organization of Iran, mentioned the impressive presence of young filmmakers in the Fajr International Film Festival, with 621 submissions from various countries.
He noted the participation of filmmakers from different Iranian provinces, reflecting the government’s cultural justice approach.
Khazaei added, “This edition of the festival showcases a diverse range of topics. We almost have no dark or bitter films. Additionally, for the first time, there is a film about retribution. Themes such as resistance, fertility, the role of Martyr Ahmad Kazemi after the Bam earthquake, the events of Karbala, and Imam Reza (PBUH) will be featured in this festival.”