JOINT PRESS RELEASE
Dr. Susan Young and Professor Michael Young paid a courtesy visit to the Institute of Early Childhood Development (IECD), a UNESCO Category 2 Institute, accompanied by the Director of the Conservatoire of Performing Arts, Mr. Pierre Joseph, and Head of Music Programme, Mr. Antoine Souris. The visit took place yesterday (Tuesday 10th September) and the IECD Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Shirley Choppy, alongside other members of the Institute, warmly welcome the Early Childhood Experts from the United Kingdom.
The meeting provided a platform for productive dialogue focused on critical issues surrounding music education in early childhood settings. Dr. Young commenced the discussions by congratulating the IECD on its achievement of being designated a UNESCO Category 2 Institute— a recognition that underscores the Institute’s commitment to advancing quality Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE).
The dialogue on the need to integrate music education across all educational institutions, including child care services. Representatives from the Seychelles National Institute of Culture, Heritage and the Arts (SNICHA) discussed a proposal to launch a movement aimed at making music a core component of the curriculum, across all age groups starting from early childhood. They highlighted that music education should not only offer artistic enrichment but also act as an effective pedagogical tool to enhance overall learning experiences.
They also discussed the need for specialised training for educators in music education, suggesting the introduction of a certificate programme through distance learning with the support of the experts and collaboration of the University of Exeter and Roehampton. This would offer existing and prospective educators the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and develop their skills, while accommodating their existing responsibilities. Additionally, there was a strong emphasis on the importance of professional development for educators to keep them abreast of new developments in this area.
The conversation also addressed the need to dispel myths surrounding the learning and teaching of music education in view of its positive impact on children’s holistic development
Furthermore, the integration of music education into social-emotional learning was highlighted as a vital approach to help young children regulate their emotions and foster positive relationships with their peers. The group discussed ideas on how music could be incorporated as a recognized part of the educational achievements for students.
The delegation’s visit coincides with a week-long workshop on Music Education in Early Childhood, aimed at equipping participants with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to effectively incorporate music into early childhood education. As the discussions concluded, both the IECD and the visiting delegation expressed a shared commitment to prioritize music education as a strategic initiative and ensure its sustainability.
Dr Young is a retired university lecturer who now holds the position of Honorary Distinguished Fellow at the Centre for Research in Early Childhood (CREC), Birmingham. She has completed PhDs in music education and biological anthropology, and originally trained as a pianist before gaining qualifications to teach. She has written several books and numerous articles and is frequently invited to speak at conferences, both nationally and internationally.
In an era where holistic education is gaining momentum, the pursuit of integrating music into the educational framework for young learners underscores a collective vision for enhancing overall development and well-being of children. With sustained efforts and collaborative initiatives, the future of music education in early childhood settings looks promising, fostering a generation that appreciates the arts and benefits from their profound impact on learning and personal growth.
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For all queries about communications or media coverage kindly liaise with:
Ms. Shelda Commettant- Director of Advocacy and information on 2822261 or email Shelda.commettant@iecd.gov.sc
