ABOSPA not happy government neglects performing arts

Speaking during the International Day for Theatre for Children and Young People commemoration hosted by Children Association of Performing Arts Botswana (CHIPABO) in Gaborone recently, Mosipidi said he strongly believes given a chance performing arts could curb unemployment.

“I am not happy with people’s perception that sport is better than the arts. In Botswana performing arts and sports are categorised as similar things, even though sports are given priority.  As ABOSPA, we feel that sports are given more recognition than arts, which is not good. Even parents discourage their children from showcasing their artistic talents, and encourage them to explore their sporting or athletic talents,” he said. He emphasised that the perception most people hold of performing arts delays its growth in the country.  He added that research has proven that a person learns better if they are taught something that they are passionate about.  He said many children have various talents in sports and arts and it could be better if children were given lessons in areas they are passionate about.