Copyright ghanaguardian
Former Director of External Affairs of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kofi Ameyaw, has voiced his opposition to the use of local languages as a medium of instruction in basic schools, citing personal experience and concerns about feasibility. Sharing his early educational experience, Mr. Ameyaw said language barriers affected his academic development. “At the age of nine, I couldn’t translate Twi into English,” he recalled — a challenge that, according to him, greatly influenced his perspective on the role of language in learning. Based on this experience, he said he does not support the policy of teaching in local languages at the basic level. “I don’t agree with the use of local languages to teach at the basic level,” he stated. While acknowledging research that underscores the cultural and identity benefits of teaching in indigenous languages, Mr. Ameyaw said it is not a policy he would personally advocate for. “Yes, research shows that it helps children identify with our culture and heritage,” he admitted, “but it’s a policy I will not advocate for.” He further argued that since Ghana already has a widely understood common language, it would be more effective to strengthen English-language instruction rather than promote multiple local languages. Citing international examples, Mr. Ameyaw referred to the Philippines, which reportedly uses about nineteen local languages in teaching, but questioned whether Ghana has the resources to replicate such a model. “I understand the Philippines uses about nineteen languages in teaching. They have the system — but do we? Do we have the logistics to meet this particular policy?” Mr. Ameyaw emphasized that while the goal of promoting indigenous languages is commendable, practical challenges including teacher training, teaching materials, and consistent implementation must be addressed to make multilingual education successful.
