Fresh off ‘restoring national pride’ by mandating all public schools sing the national anthem, Education Minister Jo Hersey has announced all Territory public schools will participate in a government initiative aimed at “celebrating and learning about Territory pride” by getting children to explore the theme of “identity” and what it means to be a Territorian.

The program is designed to become a “proud annual learning and celebration opportunity” for NT schools, Ms Hersey said, which is being introduced ahead of the 50th anniversary of self-government in 2028.

This year’s theme, ‘Identity: What does Territory Day mean to me’, encourages students to reflect on their connection to the Territory, their community, the people and experiences that shape who they are.

But the Labor Opposition says the CLP is pulling out a “gimmicky headline instead of doing the work needed in our schools”.

Ms Hersey said it was crucial students in government schools be educated about Territory history “and preserve it for future generations”. She did not say what students are currently learning about the NT’s history.

“As a long-term Territorian, Territory Day to me is an important reminder of when we took control of our own affairs, and a reminder for me to maintain fighting for the Territory,” Ms Hersey said.

Proposed activities for various school levels this year for the new pride initiative include:

• Preschool to Year 2: Place yourself or your family on a Territory map, perform a song inspired by the Territory, or create artwork that reflects how you celebrate Territory Day.
• Years 3 to 4: Work on jigsaw puzzles, create artwork, or compile a class book focused on Territory Day.
• Years 5 to 6: Design a postcard featuring the Territory, develop a tourism product, or document the story of an older Territorian.
• Years 7 to 8: Compose a song, produce a class podcast discussing the history of self-government, or create a gratitude board dedicated to the Territory.
• Years 9 to 12: Collaborate with a younger class on a project, and design themed T-shirts, plates, or mugs that represent the Territory.

“This is all about being proud of our Northern Territory history and culture, ensuring we promote and preserve it for future generations,” Ms Hersey said.

Opposition Leader Selena Uibo said the new initiative to restore pride was nothing more than “arts and crafts, really”.

“Meanwhile, there is no plan to fix falling student engagement under the CLP Government, with attendance down in Barkly, Big Rivers, Central, Darwin and the Top End,” she said.

“At the same time, the percentage of students who need educational adjustments due to disability is the highest in the country, yet there was nothing in the budget to expand systemic support for teachers educating students with additional needs.

“The CLP needs to stop using schools for weekly media stunts and start doing the work of getting kids to school, backing teachers and making classrooms safe.”