Language Is the Foundation of Identity and Learning — Deputy Education Minister

Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Abass Apaak, has called for renewed national commitment to mother tongue-based education, emphasising that language must be understood as more than a communication tool.

“Language is not merely a tool for communication; it is the foundation of cognition, identity, and cultural continuity,” Dr Apaak said.

Dr. Appak made this remarks at a language dialogue organised by the Ghana Library Authority to mark International Mother Language Day 2026.

He noted that research consistently shows that children grasp concepts more effectively when taught in a language they understand, a principle that underpins the Ministry of Education’s policy on early-grade instruction.

“It is for this reason that the Ministry of Education continues to prioritize mother tongue-based instruction at the foundational level (KG to Primary 3), while introducing English and other international languages as subjects,” he explained.

Dr. Apaak disclosed that the Ministry is working to translate core instructional materials—particularly in Mathematics and Science—into selected Ghanaian languages in collaboration with the Bureau of Ghana Languages and academic institutions.

“This initiative is designed to improve learning outcomes, reduce early-grade learning poverty, and promote equity in education delivery,” he added.

The Deputy Minister urged stakeholders to move beyond symbolic celebration of indigenous languages and invest in practical measures to preserve Ghana’s linguistic heritage.

“As we mark this important day, let us move beyond celebration to action by investing in language development, supporting research, and integrating indigenous knowledge systems into our education framework,” he said.

Dr. Apaak further encouraged parents, educators, publishers and development partners to actively promote the use of indigenous languages in homes, schools and public discourse to safeguard Ghana’s diverse linguistic landscape.

International Mother Language Day is observed annually on February 21 to promote multilingualism and protect linguistic diversity worldwide.