My Take on the Minister's Call for the Compulsory Use of Local Ghanaian Languages as a Mode of Instruction in Schools

My Take on the Minister’s Call for the Compulsory Use of Local Ghanaian Languages as Mode of Instruction in Schools

I respectfully disagree with the Minister’s call for the compulsory use of local Ghanaian languages in schools. While the intention to promote our culture and preserve our indigenous languages is admirable, making their use mandatory could create more problems than it solves.

Ghana is home to over 80 languages, and many schools, especially those in urban areas, have students from diverse ethnic and linguistic backgrounds. Enforcing a single local language in such settings would be unfair and impractical. It could also lead to confusion and even tension among students and teachers who do not share the same mother tongue.

Furthermore, English has served and continue to serve as the unifying language of our nation and a vital bridge to the global community. It is the medium through which Ghanaian students access higher education, international opportunities and global knowledge. Weakening english proficiency by shifting focus to local languages could disadvantage our students in the long run.

That said, local languages should still be valued and promoted through cultural clubs, optional language lessons and community events. But compulsion is not the answer. Education should empower students to communicate effectively both locally and globally, not limit them.

In conclusion, while I appreciate the desire to protect our local languages, making their use compulsory in schools is not the best approach. A balanced system that encourages bilingualism, without forcing it, would serve Ghana’s educational and cultural goals far better.

Tettey Kofi Nuetey