Bangalore: Parents and teachers have the responsibility of recognising and encouraging children to develop and hone their latent talent. This was the point that most of the panellists debated on at a discussion on "Is the present education curriculum providing space for nurturing young talent," organised by ITC's Classmate initiative here on Saturday.

Playback singer S.P. Balasubramaniam said that music must be part of the curriculum in elementary schools. "Music helps children get over pressure and helps increase retention. Latent talent of children should be nurtured," he said. He also said that parents these days forced children to opt for glamorous professions, even if they (children) show no aptitude or interest for them. "Often, children are not allowed to express their opportunity to express or voice their feelings. This should change," he said.

Vijay Bhaskar, Principal Secretary (Education), admitted that facilities to nurture talent in children were insufficient in government schools. There were only around 4,000 specialised teachers to teach drama, arts, etc. in the State. There were around 65,000 government schools in the State. "I feel that we are failing the children in this aspect. However, the State Government has been organising `Prathiba Karanji' competitions and `Chaitanya Chiguru' summer camps for the children. Those who have gone through these schemes have consistently been showing good results," he said.

Mr. Bhaskar also said that same was the case with students of Kasturba Schools. The schools were started in 2002 for girl dropouts. Students of these schools were winning State-level competitions and shining in all fields.

"Music may be introduced at the 20,000 higher primary schools in the State. We have to make a beginning somewhere," he added. Gururaj Kharajagi, chairman of Academy for Creative Teaching, said that curriculum was an instrument which needed to be used well by teachers to nurture talent among children.

"It is sad that the examination syndrome drives all of us — both teachers and students. Most of the time, parents and teachers are tapping the wrong doors." Chippy Gangjee, theatre personality, said the need of the hour was to bring about a chance in the way children were taught.

"The classroom should be made interactive. Parents should `interfere' more with school work," he said.

A serious paucity in talented teachers was the factor that was not nurturing young talent, said R.S. Krishna, coordinator of Social Science, TVS Schools.

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