French, Arabic, Chinese Not Compulsory – Education Ministry Clarifies Language Policy
The Ministry of Education has issued a clear statement dismissing misconceptions about the government’s proposed language-of-instruction policy for basic schools.
Contrary to circulating claims, foreign languages such as French, Arabic, and Chinese will not be compulsory subjects under the revised curriculum.
Official Clarification
In a statement signed by Hashmin Mohammed, Press Secretary to the Minister of Education, the Ministry explained the actual structure of the proposed language policy:
- Kindergarten to Primary Three: Ghanaian languages will serve as the primary medium of instruction. This approach is designed to strengthen 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.
- Primary Four to Primary Six: Both Ghanaian languages and English will be used as the medium of instruction. This bilingual model aims to ensure a smooth transition to higher levels of education (where English plays a bigger role) while helping learners maintain competence in their local languages.
Foreign Languages Remain Optional
The Ministry was emphatic on one of the most debated points:
“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.”
These languages will only be available in schools that have the necessary teachers and materials. They are not being imposed on every pupil.
Why the Policy Was Designed This Way
The Ministry noted that the language framework is based on internationally accepted educational practices. Research consistently shows that children learn best when they begin formal education in a familiar language before gradually transitioning to additional languages.
The policy also aligns with Ghana’s goals of:
- Improving literacy outcomes
- Promoting multilingualism
- Preserving the country’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage
Call to Disregard Misinformation
The Ministry urged parents, teachers, school authorities, the media, and the general public to ignore false claims suggesting that foreign languages have been made compulsory in the proposed revised curriculum.
It reaffirmed its commitment to evidence-based education policies that improve learning outcomes and equip Ghanaian children with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an interconnected world.
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