Creative arts education in Effutu municipality: Challenges of implementing the music and dance aspect

This research paper investigated the extent to which the music and dance component of the creative arts curriculum has been implemented in primary schools in the Effutu Municipality. It highlighted the feasibility and effectiveness of the implementation process. The study aims to contribute to the development of a comprehensive creative arts curriculum in Ghanaian primary schools, thereby enhancing pupils' academic and artistic abilities. The study used the qualitative research paradigm with case study as the design. Data were collected through observations and interviews and the participants included six (6) teachers from two conveniently selected public schools in the Effutu Municipality. Data analysis was conducted using Patton’s (2002) strategies. The findings revealed several factors hindering the successful implementation of the music and dance components of the Creative Arts curriculum, including inadequate teaching and learning resources including musical instruments as well as lack of qualified music teachers with the competent knowledge to implement the curriculum. The study underscores the need for government and stakeholders of the primary school curriculum to engage actively in addressing these issues through organising refresher courses, providing the necessary teaching and learning resources and rethinking teacher competence in this discipline.