By Ashiadey Dotse
The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has announced that the use of mother tongue instruction is now compulsory in all basic schools across Ghana.
Speaking at the launch of the Free Tertiary Education for Persons with Disabilities in Accra on Friday October 24, 2025, Mr. Iddrisu said the new directive takes immediate effect under the supervision of the Ghana Education Service (GES).
According to him, 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.
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 Minister said.
Mr. Iddrisu stressed that the GES will ensure strict enforcement of the policy to make sure every teacher at the basic level uses the appropriate Ghanaian language of instruction.
He added that the move forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s broader agenda to promote inclusivity and improve the quality of education in Ghana.
The Minister also 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.
