local language instruction now compulsory in all basic schools – Haruna Iddrisu

The use of the Ghanaian language for instruction is now compulsory in all basic schools across Ghana under the supervision of the Ghana Education Service, the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has said.

‎Speaking at the launch of the Free Tertiary Education for Persons with Disabilities in Accra on Friday, October 24, 2025, he said the decision is aimed at improving learning outcomes at the basic level and helping children understand lessons better in the languages they speak and know.

“I am directing the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service and the GES that from today, teacher use of mother tongue instruction is now compulsory in all Ghanaian schools.

“The GES is to ensure strict enforcement of this…This is part of President Mahama’s reset agenda,” the Education Minister said at the event.

He explained that a child learns best in a familiar language and that it is unfair for Ghanaian children to begin their education entirely in English when they come from homes where local languages are spoken.

‎“The story is told of a young girl whose teacher was teaching in English at an early stage, and the child struggled to understand. That child was not born into an English family but a proud Ghanaian family. Every Ghanaian child deserves to learn in a language they understand,” the Education Minister said.

Haruna commended President Mahama for his commitment to making education accessible and equitable for all, noting that the government continues to prioritize both basic and higher education development in the country.

‎“President Mahama is fulfilling his promise of inclusivity and equal opportunity in education. His vision is to make learning meaningful for every Ghanaian child, regardless of background or ability,” he said.