Ghana Replaces English with Local Languages as Medium of Instruction in Schools

Ghana has ended the use of English as the primary instructional language in schools, mandating mother-tongue teaching nationwide to improve learning outcomes, strengthen cultural identity and support inclusive education (image source)

ACCRA – Ghana has officially removed English as the primary language of instruction in schools, mandating the use of local Ghanaian languages across all basic education institutions. The directive, announced by Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu on 25 October 2025, marks a historic shift in the country’s education policy and aims to improve learning outcomes and cultural identity.

Speaking at the launch of the Free Tertiary Education for Persons with Disabilities initiative in Accra, Iddrisu instructed the Ghana Education Service (GES) to enforce the new language mandate nationwide. From now on, teachers are required to use mother tongues such as Twi, Ewe, Ga, Dagbani and others as the principal medium of instruction at the foundational level.

“From today, teacher use of mother-tongue instruction is now compulsory in all Ghanaian schools,” said Iddrisu. “This is part of our Reset Agenda to deepen cultural identity and bridge language barriers in education.”

The policy is rooted in research showing that children learn best in their first language, especially in early childhood. Ghana’s Ministry of Education says the move will enhance comprehension, reduce dropout rates and foster inclusive learning environments. “We want every Ghanaian child to feel seen and heard in the classroom,” said GES Director-General Dr. Eric Nkansah. “Language should be a bridge, not a barrier.”

The shift away from English, Ghana’s colonial legacy language, has sparked debate among educators, parents and policymakers. Supporters argue that it will democratise education and empower rural communities, while critics worry about the implications for global competitiveness and tertiary education. “We must balance local relevance with global readiness,” said education analyst Dr. Ama Ofori. “English remains important, but it should not be the only gateway to knowledge.”

The government has pledged to invest in teacher training, curriculum development and learning materials in local languages. Publishers are being encouraged to produce textbooks and digital content in indigenous languages, and universities are expected to expand linguistics and translation programs.

Ghana joins a growing list of African nations prioritising mother-tongue instruction, including Ethiopia, Tanzania and South Africa. The African Union’s Continental Education Strategy also promotes multilingual education as a tool for equity and inclusion. “This is a bold step toward decolonising education,” said AU Education Commissioner Prof. Mohamed Belhocine.

Implementation will begin with basic schools and gradually expand to junior high levels. English will remain part of the curriculum but no longer serve as the default language of instruction.