STAR-POST (Art) January 2019 Jan. 2019 | Page 10

NURTURING TALENT, EXPANDING PATHWAYS “It is important that every student is given the opportunity to discover and develop his or her interests and strengths, and be supported in making more informed choices about their future career pathways.” ROLE OF ARTS EDUCATION AS THE CATALYST FOR CHANGE “We believe in the power of the arts to move beyond the aesthetics into work that enables individuals and communities to effect change, whether in attitude or in action. I encourage you to continue to tap on the transformative power of the arts, to influence and impact students’ lives. Arts education plays a part in nurturing the whole child. It continues to be a pivotal platform for students to cultivate a sense of curiosity, discover their interests and talents, grow their passions, and develop life skills, and a love for life-long learning. “Portraits III: Narratives of Singapore Arts Educators” was launched at AEC 2018. A critical dimension of your teacher leadership is to champion and shape how learning in the arts can impact and influence communities locally and globally. For the shift to succeed, we will need to work together as a community, with our stakeholders and partners.” RECOGNISING OUR ARTS EDUCATORS “Arts educators play a critical role in the pursuit for excellence through multiple pathways. They shape and advocate for students’ development in different ways. “I strongly encourage everyone in this room to create your own stories of success and share them so that others may learn and be inspired.” 10 Read full speech by Second Minister for Education HERE. View opening address by Second Minister for Education HERE. 11