The Ghana Library Authority has organised its first-ever language conversation programme as part of activities marking International Mother Language Day 2026, with a renewed call to preserve and promote indigenous languages.
The event, themed “Languages Preserved on Pages: A Language Conversation,” brought together academics, educationists, cultural advocates, policymakers and students to examine the role of language in national development, identity formation and inclusive education.
Delivering the opening address, Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Abass Apaak, described the initiative as “timely and forward-looking,” commending the Authority for creating a national platform to discuss language policy and practice.
“Language is not merely a tool for communication; it is the foundation of cognition, identity, and cultural continuity,” Dr. Apaak stated.
He reiterated government’s commitment to mother tongue-based instruction at the foundational level, noting that children learn best when taught in a language they understand.
“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 said.
Dr. Apaak further announced ongoing efforts 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.
He urged stakeholders to go beyond symbolic observances of the day. “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.
The programme, held on February 20, 2026, was chaired by Professor Owusu Agyemang and featured a panel discussion involving students and language advocates who shared perspectives on literature, translation and the importance of mother-tongue education in safeguarding Ghana’s linguistic diversity.
The Ghana Library Authority reaffirmed its commitment to promoting multilingualism and celebrating Ghanaian languages through reading, documentation and sustained national conversations as International Mother Language Day is marked globally on February 21.
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