The Ministry of Education has rejected claims that foreign languages have been made compulsory in Ghana’s proposed revised basic school curriculum, urging the public to disregard what it describes as misinformation surrounding the new language policy.
This follows public debate over the use of Ghanaian and foreign languages in schools.
In a statement, the Ministry stressed that languages such as French, Arabic and Chinese will remain optional and will only be offered where schools have the necessary teaching staff and resources.
“The Ministry further clarifies that foreign languages such as French, Arabic, and Chinese among others are not compulsory subjects. They will be offered as optional languages for pupils who wish to acquire additional language skills, subject to the availability of qualified teachers and learning resources in their respective schools.”
The Ministry explained that the revised curriculum instead places emphasis on the use of Ghanaian languages during the early years of a child’s education.
It said pupils from Kindergarten (KG) to Primary Three will be taught primarily in Ghanaian languages before transitioning to a bilingual approach in the upper primary level.
According to the Ministry, English will be introduced alongside Ghanaian languages from Primary Four to Primary Six to support learners as they progress through the education system.
“From Primary Four to Primary Six, both Ghanaian languages and English will be used as the medium of instruction. This bilingual approach is designed to support a smooth transition to higher levels of education, where English assumes a greater role, while preserving learners’ competence in Ghanaian languages.”
The Ministry said the proposed policy is based on internationally recognised educational practices, which encourage children to begin learning in a familiar language before acquiring additional languages.
“The language policy is informed by internationally accepted educational practices, which recognise that children learn best when they begin their education in a familiar language before gradually transitioning to additional languages. It also aligns with Ghana’s commitment to improving literacy outcomes, promoting multilingualism, and preserving the nation’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage.”
The Ministry therefore called on parents, teachers, school authorities, media organisations and the general public to ignore reports suggesting foreign languages have become mandatory under the revised curriculum.
It reiterated its commitment to implementing evidence-based education policies aimed at improving learning outcomes and equipping Ghanaian children with the skills needed for the future.
