The Ministry of Education has clarified that foreign languages have not been made compulsory in Ghana’s proposed revised basic school curriculum, dismissing public claims to the contrary and outlining a new language of instruction policy aimed at improving foundational learning outcomes.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Ministry said the revised policy seeks to address misconceptions surrounding the use of Ghanaian and foreign languages in the country’s education system. It explained that Ghanaian languages will be the primary medium of instruction from Kindergarten (KG) to Primary Three to strengthen pupils’ literacy, numeracy, critical thinking and overall cognitive development.
According to the Ministry, the approach is intended to ensure that children begin their education in a language they understand best, thereby enhancing learning during their formative years.
Under the proposed curriculum, both Ghanaian languages and English will be used as the medium of instruction from Primary Four to Primary Six. The Ministry said the bilingual model is designed to facilitate a gradual transition to higher levels of education, where English assumes a greater instructional role, while maintaining learners’ proficiency in Ghanaian languages.
The Ministry further stressed that foreign languages, including French, Arabic and Chinese, will remain optional subjects rather than compulsory ones. It noted that these languages will only be offered to pupils who wish to acquire additional language skills, subject to the availability of qualified teachers and learning resources in their respective schools.
The statement explained that the revised policy is based on internationally accepted educational practices, which recommend that children first develop strong literacy skills in a familiar language before transitioning to additional languages. It added that the policy also aligns with Ghana’s commitment to improving literacy, promoting multilingualism and preserving the country’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
The Ministry called on parents, teachers, school authorities, media organisations and the general public to disregard misinformation suggesting that foreign languages have been made mandatory under the proposed curriculum.
It reaffirmed its commitment to implementing evidence-based education policies that improve learning outcomes and equip Ghanaian children with the knowledge, skills and competencies needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.
The statement was signed by Hashmin Mohammed, Press Secretary to the Minister of Education.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
