Education Ministry clarifies language policy for basic schools
The Ministry of Education has clarified the government’s proposed language-of-instruction policy for basic schools, rejecting reports that foreign languages such as French, Arabic and Chinese will be compulsory under the revised curriculum.
In a statement issued on August 2 by the ministry’s Press Secretary, Hashmin Mohammed, the ministry said recent public discussions had led to misunderstandings about the policy. It stressed that Ghanaian languages would continue to play a central role in the early years of education.
Under the proposed revised curriculum, Ghanaian languages will be used as the main medium of instruction from Kindergarten through Primary Three.
The ministry said the policy is aimed at improving pupils’ foundational literacy and numeracy, as well as their critical thinking and cognitive development, by allowing them to learn during their formative years in a language they understand well.
From Primary Four to Primary Six, both Ghanaian languages and English will be used for instruction. According to the ministry, this bilingual approach will help pupils gradually transition to higher levels of education, where English becomes more dominant, while also maintaining their proficiency in Ghanaian languages.
The ministry further clarified that foreign languages, including French, Arabic and Chinese, will not be compulsory subjects under the proposed curriculum.
Instead, such languages will be offered as optional subjects to pupils who wish to develop additional language skills. Their availability, however, will depend on the presence of qualified teachers and adequate learning materials in individual schools.
The ministry explained that the policy is based on internationally recognised educational practices which show that children learn more effectively when they begin their education in a familiar language before gradually being introduced to additional languages.
It added that the policy supports Ghana’s efforts to improve literacy, promote multilingualism and preserve the country’s diverse linguistic and cultural heritage.
The Ministry of Education has therefore urged parents, teachers, school authorities, media organisations and the general public to disregard claims that foreign languages have been made compulsory under the proposed revised curriculum.
It reaffirmed its commitment to implementing evidence-based education policies aimed at improving learning outcomes and equipping Ghanaian children with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.
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