lancement de la Semaine du Petit archéologue
Summary of the First Edition of the "Little Archaeologist Week" in Mascara
The inaugural "Little Archaeologist Week," aimed at primary school students, commenced on Tuesday at the archaeological site of "Homme de Tighennif," located in the same-named commune within the wilaya of Mascara. This event is part of the celebration of Heritage Month and is organized by the Directorate of Culture and Arts.
On the first day, the event showcased exhibitions featuring informative posters and photographs highlighting the region’s archaeological and historical sites. Notable locations included the Zmala of Emir Abdelkader (a traveling capital) in the Sidi Kada commune and the Roman camp "Aquae Sirenses" in Bouhanifia.
The week-long program encompasses various workshops aimed at raising awareness about archaeological mosaics, the restoration of archaeological artifacts, and presentations on monuments from Roman and Ottoman periods in the region. Abdelghani Rezigui, the director of Culture and Arts, indicated that these activities will be guided by professionals from the respective fields.
Additionally, two competitions are planned: one for the best play about local cultural heritage and another for the best traditional costume parade, specifically for primary school students. There will also be two workshops—one focusing on storytelling and the other on reading histories linked to cultural heritage. Both are designed to enlighten students about the tangible and intangible heritage of the Mascara wilaya.
The primary goal of the initiative is to familiarize young students with the region’s historical and archaeological monuments, emphasizing the importance of their preservation. The event also seeks to highlight the efforts made by the cultural and arts sector in promoting local heritage.
Detailed Overview
Event Objectives
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Educational Focus: The main purpose of the "Little Archaeologist Week" is to introduce primary school students to their local history. This initiative aims to develop a sense of pride and awareness among young learners about the rich cultural heritage that surrounds them.
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Archaeological Awareness: By engaging students in workshops and exhibitions, the event not only educates but also fosters an appreciation for archaeological preservation.
- Cultural Valorization: The event serves as a platform to highlight the significance of local culture and historical monuments, promoting the role of the Directorate of Culture and Arts in preserving these resources.
Key Activities
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Exhibitions: The week’s kick-off featured informative displays, allowing students to explore significant archaeological sites through visual aids.
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Workshops: A variety of hands-on workshops will be held throughout the week:
- Archaeological Mosaics: Teaching students about this art form.
- Object Restoration: Offering insights into preserving historical artifacts.
- Historical Monument Presentations: Focusing on the architecture and significance of Roman and Ottoman era structures in Mascara.
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Competitions: To encourage participation and creativity, two competitions have been organized:
- Best Cultural Heritage Play: Aimed at promoting storytelling and drama based on local history.
- Traditional Costume Parade: A celebration of cultural heritage through attire.
- Storytelling and Reading Workshops: These sessions will delve into local tales and histories, fostering an emotional and intellectual connection between students and their heritage.
Importance of the Initiative
The initiative underscores the significance of educating the younger generation about their cultural and historical identity. By integrating educational activities with practical workshops and competitions, the "Little Archaeologist Week" hopes to:
- Nurture a generation that values and respects their cultural heritage.
- Engage students in a dialogue about the importance of preserving their historical sites.
- Inspire a lifelong interest in archaeology and history.
Through this holistic approach, the Directorate of Culture and Arts aims to build a bridge between the students of today and the heritage that shapes their community, ensuring that the stories of the past are shared and preserved for future generations. The event marks a crucial step in recognizing the role of education in cultural preservation and is a commendable effort in instilling pride and responsibility in the youth of Mascara.
