The Ministry of Education has clarified that English remains the language of instruction in Ghanaian basic schools and has not been dropped from the curriculum.
The clarification follows public concern over a recent directive encouraging the use of local languages for pupils from Kindergarten to Primary Three.
In a statement signed by Deputy Minister for Education Dr. Clement Apaak on Thursday, October 30, the Ministry explained that the use of home languages alongside English has been a long-standing national policy since independence, although implementation has been inconsistent.
The Ministry said teaching children in a language they understand, while introducing English, improves literacy and learning outcomes in all subjects. It added that using a language unfamiliar to learners can create barriers to understanding and hinder academic progress.
To strengthen early education, the Ministry announced plans to review the existing policy and build on successful local initiatives such as Complementary Basic Education, which engages communities and promotes early grade instruction in Ghana’s 12 approved local languages.
The goal is for pupils to gain proficiency in their home or playground language by the end of Basic Year Three, laying a solid foundation for learning English and other languages in later years.
Citing global examples from China, Finland, Japan, and Malaysia, the Ministry said evidence shows that early mastery of one’s home language supports learning in additional languages and strengthens cultural identity.
It assured the public that English and other international languages will continue to be taught, ensuring quality education while nurturing confident and globally minded Ghanaian citizens.
