Accra: The Ministry of Education has clarified the government's language of instruction policy for basic schools following public debate and misconceptions about the role of Ghanaian and foreign languages in the revised curriculum.
According to Ghana Web, a statement issued by Hashmin Mohammed, Press Secretary to the Minister, on August 2, 2026, detailed that Ghanaian languages will be the primary medium of instruction from Kindergarten (KG) to Primary Three. This policy aims to enhance children's foundational literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and overall cognitive development by allowing them to learn in a language they understand best during their formative years.
The statement further elaborated that from Primary Four to Primary Six, both Ghanaian languages and English will be employed as the medium of instruction. This bilingual approach is intended to facilitate a smooth transition to higher education levels, where English takes on a more significant role, while still preserving learners' proficiency in Ghanaian languages.
The Ministry also made it clear that foreign languages such as French, Arabic, and Chinese will not be compulsory subjects. Instead, they will be offered as optional courses for students interested in acquiring additional language skills, contingent upon the availability of qualified teachers and resources in their schools.
The policy, as emphasized in the statement, is based on internationally accepted educational practices, which acknowledge that children learn best when they begin their education in a familiar language before gradually transitioning to other languages. This approach aligns with Ghana's commitment to enhancing literacy outcomes, fostering multilingualism, and preserving the country's rich linguistic and cultural heritage.
The Ministry affirmed its commitment to implementing evidence-based education policies that improve learning outcomes, equipping every Ghanaian child with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.