Adec looks to add heritage as subject

The Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec) is planning to include cultural heritage in the art curricula of the schools in the emirate.
Adec representatives recently had a meeting with the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA) representatives looking at how to best turn artistic elements of world heritage sites in Al Ain into school subjects.
"Adec is keen to promote national identity and reinforce the UAE's history and heritage through including them in curriculum and linking them to various subjects for students, in addition to encouraging students to become creative and innovative in scientific and artistic activities," said Dr Najwa Al Hosani, advisor to Adec's director-general and acting Curriculum Division manager.
Last month, Aldar Schools announced it is working with Adec to develop a school curriculum for UAE history, another subject that is missing in Abu Dhabi schools.
During the Adec and TCA meeting, a workshop was held, introducing teachers to the "artistic" elements of archaeological sites that reflect Al Ain's history and civilisation.
These include artefacts such as pots, weapons and jewellery that go back to the Bronze Age, some 3,000 years ago, discovered by archaeologists at various sites in Al Ain.
Dr Musa Salem, head of Content Development section - Education and Professional Development Division at TCA, reminded that Al Ain's heritage sites, which include its oasis, forts, tombs and ancient archaeological discoveries, have been registered as the first Emirati site on World Heritage List at Unesco since 2011.
According to him, integrating art characteristics in the art curriculum would enhance the knowledge of both teachers and students on this great 3,000 year old humanitarian legacy.
Following the talk, Adec art teachers went on a practical art workshop aimed at expanding their creative and artistic teaching methods and ideas.
silvia@khaleejtimes.com