THE CONTRIBUTION OF LOCAL CURRICULUM CONTENT IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF SKILLS OF 6TH GRADE STUDENTS: CASE STUDY AT EDUARDO MONDLANE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, MOCUBA DISTRICT

Abstract

This study analyzes the contribution of local curriculum content to the skill development of 6th grade students at Eduardo Mondlane Elementary School, Mocuba, Mozambique. This is a qualitative, applied, and descriptive study based on a literature review, interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. Two school board members, three parents/guardians, four teachers, and six students participated. The results show that, although there is no official curriculum for local content, there is improvised insertion of topics related to the history, arts, and crafts of the community, promoting cultural identity and practical skills. However, a lack of resources, poor parent and teacher knowledge of the topic, and limited communication between the school and community hinder the institutionalization and/or implementation of this curricular component. It also became clear that the implementation of the local curriculum requires greater planning, teacher training, and community integration.