The Ministry of Education has responded to the ongoing public debate over the compulsory use of Ghanaian languages as the medium of instruction in basic schools.
Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, has clarified that the directive issued by the Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, applies only to the early years of basic education, not all levels.
Dr. Apaak made the clarification on Monday, October 27, 2025, during the launch of the Foundational Learning Action Tracker. His remarks followed widespread discussions and public concerns that arose after the initial announcement of the language directive.
He explained that the minister had specifically tasked him to clarify the scope and intent of the mother tongue policy to prevent misinterpretation and ease public apprehension.
According to Dr. Apaak, the goal of the policy is to strengthen foundational learning by allowing children to study in familiar local languages during their early cognitive development years.
“The Honourable Minister for Education has asked me to clarify that the policy directive he announced on Friday regarding the compulsory use of mother tongue as a medium of instruction in public basic schools is confined—emphasis, confined—to Kindergarten up to Primary Three,” Dr. Apaak stated.
He further reiterated the point, saying:
“In other words, it applies to KG and Lower Primary. Having clarified what seems to have given a few persons sleepless nights, I bring you greetings.”
This means that from Kindergarten to Primary Three, lessons will primarily be delivered in Ghanaian languages, while English will become the main medium of instruction from Primary Four onward.
Meanwhile, several education experts have welcomed the initiative but cautioned that its success will depend on strong government support, proper teacher training, and the availability of suitable learning materials.
