Iranian Cultural Centre launches painting competition in protest against bombing school children

DAR ES SALAAM:THE Iranian Cultural Centre in Tanzania has launched a painting competition aimed at encouraging the community, particularly children and youth, to express their feelings through art following an explosion that occurred in Iran in February this year, in which Minaab Primary School was bombed, killing 168 pupils.

Speaking about the competition, the centre’s Public Relations Officer, Amani Salum, said a total of 50 schools participated in the event, with more than 200 students showcasing their talents through various drawings carrying messages of peace, unity and love.

He said 40 winners were selected from among the participants and are expected to receive special awards in recognition of their contribution in using art to educate society and convey meaningful messages.

Meanwhile, one of the judges of the competition and an expert in fine arts studies, Dr Eric Mgema, said paintings play a significant role in society as they help express people’s emotions and thoughts in a simple and impactful way.

Dr Mgema said painting is one of the important forms of communication capable of carrying strong social messages and encouraging people to reflect on various events taking place around the world.