The Ministry of Education has clarified the Government’s proposed language of instruction policy for basic schools, dismissing claims that foreign languages such as French, Arabic and Chinese have been made compulsory under the revised curriculum.
In a statement issued on Sunday, August 2, 2026, the Ministry said recent public discussions had created misconceptions about the proposed policy, making it necessary to explain how languages will be taught at the basic school level.
According to the Ministry, Ghanaian languages will be the primary medium of instruction from Kindergarten (KG) to Primary Three to strengthen children’s foundational learning.
“The 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.
The Ministry explained that from Primary Four to Primary Six, instruction will be delivered in both Ghanaian languages and English as part of a bilingual approach aimed at easing pupils’ transition to higher levels of education.
“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,” it stated.
Addressing concerns about foreign language instruction, the Ministry stressed that languages including French, Arabic and Chinese will remain optional rather than compulsory.
“Foreign languages such as French, Arabic, and Chinese, among others, are not compulsory subjects. They will be offered as optional languages for pupils who wish to acquire additional language skills, subject to the availability of qualified teachers and learning resources in their respective schools,” the Ministry said.
It noted that the proposed policy is based on internationally recognised educational practices, which show that children learn more effectively when they begin schooling in a language they already understand before gradually learning additional languages.
The Ministry added that the approach supports Ghana’s efforts to improve literacy, promote multilingualism and preserve the country’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
The Ministry also urged parents, teachers, school authorities, media organisations and the public to disregard misinformation suggesting that foreign languages have been made mandatory under the proposed revised curriculum.
“The Ministry remains committed to implementing evidence-based education policies that improve learning outcomes and equip every Ghanaian child with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world,” the statement concluded.
The statement was signed by Hashmin Mohammed, Press Secretary to the Minister of Education.
New curriculum makes Ghanaian languages compulsory; Chinese and other foreign languages introduced
