Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, December 12:- Punjab Council of School Education Research and Training (SCERT), Punjab has initiated a historic transformation in the state’s art education system. For the first time in forty years, Punjab is all set to take a significant step towards upgrading its state art curriculum and art books, integrating local culture, heritage and modern pedagogical practices with classroom learning.
To take forward this important project, SCERT has collaborated with Slam Out Loud, a national organization renowned for its expertise in art-based learning and social-emotional learning (SEL). As part of the curriculum reform, SCERT has formed a Project Management Unit comprising two committees, a Core Committee and a Working Committee. The core committee is headed by Shri Rajiv Kumar, Assistant Director, AQT Cell, SCERT Punjab, and comprises art experts from across the state.
On 12th December 2025, SCERT and Slam Out Loud officially inaugurated the working committee. The meeting began with introductions of all the members, followed by a group discussion on the transformative work and achievements done to strengthen art education in Punjab during the last four years.
During the discussion, the members unanimously noted that the art books of Punjab have not changed for the last 40 years. Recognizing this long-standing deficiency, the committee stressed on the urgent need for a research-based, culturally connected new curriculum to revive the local and cultural art forms of Punjab and preserve the splendid artistic heritage of the state. The members also reiterated that the new curriculum will be designed in line with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) and the State Curriculum Framework (SCF).
The Assistant Director emphasized that art is not only a separate subject but also an important component in every subject. He said that art integrated education is essential for developing 21st century competencies, strengthening social-emotional learning, connecting students with the real world and instilling a deep appreciation for local and regional art forms.
This initiative is an important step in giving a new direction to art education, so that children across Punjab get an art education that enhances creativity, strengthens cultural identity and supports collective development.