Education Ministry Clarifies Basic School Language Policy
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
The Ministry of Education has clarified the Government’s proposed language of instruction policy for basic schools, dismissing claims that foreign languages have been made compulsory under the revised curriculum.
The clarification follows widespread public debate and misinformation suggesting that pupils would be required to study languages such as French, Arabic and Chinese from the early years of schooling.
In a statement, the Ministry said the revised policy is intended to improve literacy, learning outcomes and cognitive development by ensuring children begin their education in a language they understand before gradually transitioning to English.
Under the proposal, Ghanaian languages will serve as the main medium of instruction from Kindergarten to Primary Three. Education authorities said teaching children in a familiar language strengthens foundational literacy and numeracy skills, improves classroom participation and enhances critical thinking during the early stages of learning.
The Ministry noted that international research consistently shows that children achieve better educational outcomes when they are taught in their first language before learning additional languages.
From Primary Four to Primary Six, both Ghanaian languages and English will be used as the medium of instruction under a bilingual approach designed to prepare pupils for higher levels of education, where English becomes the dominant language of instruction, while preserving proficiency in indigenous languages.
Addressing one of the most debated aspects of the proposed curriculum, the Ministry stressed that foreign languages, including French, Arabic and Chinese, will remain optional subjects. They will only be offered in schools that have the required teachers and learning resources, and only to pupils who choose to study them.
The Ministry therefore described as false reports suggesting that all pupils would be required to study one or more foreign languages under the new curriculum.
It urged parents, teachers, school administrators, the media and the general public to rely on official government communication rather than unverified reports regarding education reforms.
According to the Ministry, the revised language policy is based on internationally recognised educational principles that recommend children first learn in a familiar language before gradually acquiring additional languages. It added that the policy supports Ghana’s broader goals of improving literacy, promoting multilingual education and preserving the country’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
Reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the education system, the Ministry said it will continue to implement evidence-based policies that improve teaching and learning, while encouraging stakeholders to seek clarification through official channels on all proposed education reforms.
