IN recent years, Panjgur, like other cities in the country, has witnessed a rapid and noticeable shift in the culture of its educational institutions. Both private and government schools have begun heavily promoting dance performances as the primary form of extracurricular expression during school events. Annual days, welcome ceremonies, Independence Day programmes and even minor celebrations are now dominated by choreographed dance routines that are mostly performed by very young pre-school students who are trained specifically for these shows.

While extracurricular activities are meant to enhance creativity and broaden a child’s exposure to various skills, the overemphasis on dance alone has created an imbalance in Panjgur’s schools. Instead of offering a diverse range of learning opportunities, such as sports, debate, reading clubs, theatre, arts, or skill-based workshops, many institutions are investing their time and resources in preparing students for dance performances.

Child development specialists say this narrow focus may have unintended psychological consequences. A study published in Archives of Psychiatric Nursing in 2024 found that 27 per cent of students engaged in intensive dance practice reported emotional stress, performance anxiety and self-doubt. Similarly, a 2022 systematic review of dance interventions in a PubMed study highlighted that while dance can be beneficial for emotional wellbeing, these benefits only appear when participation is voluntary and supportive.

In Panjgur, many parents have been voicing concerns about dance rehearsals often replacing regular classes, affecting academic discipline and diluting the curriculum. Psychologists argue that disruptions in routine can lead to decreased concentration and academic fatigue. A 2022 study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health warned that dance-centred programmes when not age-appropriate may contribute to body-image stress, particularly among school-aged children and adolescents.

These findings mirror what is happening in the country. Children are spending hours memorising choreography instead of learning new skills. Students who do not enjoy dancing feel pressured.

Creativity becomes restricted to imitation rather than exploration. Educational psychologists emphasise that extra-curricular activities must be diverse and developmentally enriching. Schools need to reconsider what they are promoting.

Yasmin Sana
Panjgur

Published in Dawn, April 23rd, 2026