Ghanaian creative and visual storyteller, Nana Kofi Asihene, has called for a more intentional and comprehensive approach to the education of the Arts in Ghana, arguing that the way the subject is taught and perceived needs to be reconsidered.
Asihene made the observation during his appearance on the second episode of Franco Vybz with Rev Erskine, where he was asked what he would change if given the opportunity to serve as Ghana’s Minister of Creative Arts.
In response, the renowned creative identified Arts education as one of the key areas he would seek to address, emphasizing that the issue goes beyond what is taught in schools to include the mindset and perception people develop about the Arts.
“I think what I will change is the education of Arts; how we educate people about art and the mentality they carry about the Arts.”
The creative before his remark noted that, Africa has a vast market for the art, which can only be tapped into by individuals who are prepared to work together and pave way for the younger generation to thrive as creatives.
Ghana’s creative industry continues to attract growing attention for its contribution to the country’s cultural identity, tourism and economy. From visual arts and photography to film, music, fashion and other creative disciplines, industry stakeholders have increasingly called for stronger structures to support young creatives and equip them with the skills needed to thrive.
The conversation formed part of the second episode of FrancoVybz, hosted by award-winning broadcaster Rev Erskine. The podcast seeks to examine the cultural, creative and professional connections between Ghana and the Francophone world, while creating a platform for discovery and exchange among young audiences.
FrancoVybz airs on all YFM Ghana stations every Saturdays (Y107.9FM in Accra at 3:30pm; Y102.5FM in Kumasi & Y97.9FM in Takoradi at 5:30pm) with repeats on Wednesdays at 10pm.
Episodes are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Audiomack under the name FrancoVybz.