Revised curriculum prioritises Ghanaian languages to boost literacy, critical thinking – Education Ministry

The Ministry of Education says the proposed revised curriculum for basic schools will prioritise the use of Ghanaian languages in the early years of education as part of efforts to improve literacy, numeracy and critical thinking among pupils.

The Ministry explained that the policy is grounded in research showing that children learn more effectively when they begin their education in a language they already understand.

In a statement signed by the Press Secretary to the Minister of Education, Hashmin Mohammed, the Ministry said Ghanaian languages will be the primary medium of instruction from Kindergarten (KG) to Primary Three.

“In the proposed revised curriculum, Ghanaian languages will serve as the primary medium of instruction from Kindergarten (KG) to Primary Three. This policy is intended to strengthen children’s foundational literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and overall cognitive development by enabling them to learn in a language they understand best during their formative years,” the statement said.

According to the Ministry, the approach is intended to build a strong educational foundation before pupils gradually transition to English at the upper primary level.

It stated that from Primary Four to Primary Six, instruction will be delivered in both Ghanaian languages and English to ensure a smooth progression to higher levels of education while maintaining learners’ proficiency in local languages.

“From Primary Four to Primary Six, both Ghanaian languages and English will be used as the medium of instruction. This bilingual approach is designed to support a smooth transition to higher levels of education, where English assumes a greater role, while preserving learners’ competence in Ghanaian languages.”

The Ministry noted that the proposed policy reflects internationally recognised educational practices and Ghana’s broader commitment to improving learning outcomes.

“The language policy is informed by internationally accepted educational practices, which recognise that children learn best when they begin their education in a familiar language before gradually transitioning to additional languages. It also aligns with Ghana’s commitment to improving literacy outcomes, promoting multilingualism, and preserving the nation’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage.”

The Ministry also used the opportunity to dismiss reports suggesting that foreign languages have been made compulsory under the revised curriculum.

It clarified that French, Arabic, Chinese and other foreign languages will remain optional subjects, depending on the availability of qualified teachers and learning resources.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to implementing evidence-based education policies that equip Ghanaian children with the knowledge, skills and competencies needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.