New Delhi, November 12, 2023 – In a recent circular (Acad-128/2023), the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has urged all affiliated schools to establish Culture and Heritage Clubs, fostering a deeper connection with India’s rich cultural tapestry. The move aligns with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023, emphasizing the importance of values-based education for holistic student development.
CBSE has referenced its previous circulars (33/05, 50/10, 76/2011, and Acad-124/2021) underlining the significance of cultural and values integration in education. The aim is to instill an appreciation for India’s diverse heritage, traditions, literature, art, and geographical richness.
To achieve these objectives, CBSE recommends the incorporation of Culture and Heritage Clubs in schools, drawing support from the Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Among Youth (SPIC MACAY). This organization actively engages in promoting values-based cultural activities in educational institutions, covering classical and folk music, dance, crafts, and other cultural endeavors.
Schools are encouraged to introduce experiential, value-based education through Culture and Heritage Clubs. CBSE suggests various activities for these clubs, including classical and folk arts demonstrations, craft workshops, cinema screenings, talks by enlightened individuals, heritage walks, yoga camps, and more.
In collaboration with SPIC MACAY, CBSE provides a range of activities and modules that these clubs can undertake. The Annexure 1 lists suggested activities, including classical and folk arts workshops, cinema screenings, talks, heritage walks, and holistic camps. Annexure 2 provides an overview of SPIC MACAY modules, covering yoga and meditation, classical arts, folk arts, theatre, cinema classics, talks, heritage walks, and global collaborations.
CBSE emphasizes that SPIC MACAY will serve as a Knowledge Partner, offering resources and guidance to Culture and Heritage Clubs. The circular encourages schools to contact the National Coordinator (Schools) at heritageclub@spicmacay.com or nehasharma@spicmacay.com for further details.
Dr. Joseph Emmanuel, Director (Academics) at CBSE, expressed best wishes for the initiative, highlighting the importance of such clubs in nurturing students’ understanding of India’s cultural heritage.
In summary, CBSE’s push for Culture and Heritage Clubs in collaboration with SPIC MACAY reflects a commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education that fosters pride and rootedness in India’s rich cultural legacy.
For more information, schools are directed to visit the official CBSE website (http://cbseacademic.nic.in) or contact the CBSE Academic Directorate via email at directoracad.cbse@nic.in or by telephone at 011-23212603.
