I absolutely agree with you. When I was in college, even our more computer based artists had to take foundational arts classes. I feel like having that base helps us learn and think more as artists. Also, even if they are focusing more on photography or graphic design, there are art elements that come into play in both of those fields (such as composition, emphasis, etc.) These topics are things that are covered in any foundational art class.
While many schools and educational systems are pushing our learners more towards technology and STEM, I do feel that being hands on with materials and projects is something that should not be phased out entirely. With that being said, I do utilize technology in my classroom and with distance learning being our current reality I do not knock its importance. I feel that students are able to explore more in a hands on environment (such as an art class) and are able to learn by playing with materials, making mistakes, and then trying out a different path. Some students do not learn well with a computer screen, and that is something that the educational system must take into account as well as we move forward.