The Bureau of Ghana Languages has renewed calls for greater national commitment toward preserving and promoting local languages, as it marked its annual celebration on the theme “The Promotion and Use of the Ghanaian Languages for National Development.”
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie emphasized that Ghanaian languages are a critical driver of identity, social cohesion and sustainable development.
Hon. Gomashie highlighted the cultural richness embedded in Ghana’s languages and encouraged Ghanaians to embrace this diversity with pride. She noted that throughout the nation’s history, local languages have served as vital tools for community cohesion and national identity. Drawing on earlier examples of foreign missionaries who learned Ghanaian languages to serve their communities, she emphasised that this spirit of openness and cultural appreciation remains essential today. She encouraged citizens to learn the languages of the communities in which they live, observing that doing so strengthens relationships and deepens understanding across regions.
The Minister praised research from global institutions such as the World Bank, UNICEF and UNESCO, which affirms that mother-tongue education enhances learning outcomes, boosts confidence in young learners and nurtures cognitive development. She referenced studies showing that children taught in familiar languages perform better in reading, mathematics and overall comprehension. She emphasised that these findings present an opportunity for Ghana to further enhance its education system by placing greater value on local languages, especially at the foundational level.
The Hon. Minister encouraged continued collaboration between government agencies, educators and communities to expand the teaching and use of Ghanaian languages, while strengthening training programmes that equip teachers with the skills to deliver multilingual education effectively.
The Acting Director of the Bureau of Ghana Languages, Mr. Ebenezer Ahiator,Esq., praised the Ministry for initiating the national dialogue and described Ghana’s linguistic diversity as a powerful resource for knowledge, resilience and innovation. Citing Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, he reaffirmed that Ghanaian languages are central to unity and national progress. He highlighted key focus areas of the dialogue, policy improvement, curriculum integration, teacher training, digital tools and cultural entrepreneurship, and emphasised the role of technology and the creative sector in expanding the use of local languages. Linking the initiative to President Mahama’s “Resetting Agenda,” he expressed confidence that sustained collaboration and innovation will place Ghanaian languages at the heart of national development.
The event gathered key stakeholders who reaffirmed the value of protecting Ghana’s linguistic heritage and strengthening its place in modern society. It concluded with broad support for a national plan to advance multilingualism and cultural pride, with speakers stressing that promoting indigenous languages is essential for driving national progress.
Source. Delassie Mabel Awuku- PR Unit- MoTCCA
