Deputy Minister for Health and Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan, Honourable Professor Dr. Grace Ayensu Danquah, has thrown her weight behind the call to integrate local languages into Ghana’s education system, describing it as a crucial step toward improving learning outcomes and fostering national development.
Speaking passionately during a parliamentary session on Wednesday, 2nd July 2025, Dr. Ayensu Danquah highlighted the transformative potential of teaching in indigenous languages—a campaign spearheaded by Her Excellency the Vice President, Jane Naana Opoku - Agyemang.
“It is very important to speak our language and also to be taught in our schools,” Dr. Ayensu Danquah emphasized. “Incorporating our local languages will help students better understand what is being taught, which in the long run will yield better results.”
She explained that learning in a familiar tongue enhances comprehension, boosts students’ confidence, and encourages active participation in civic life—key ingredients for national progress. “When we speak and learn in our local language, it leads to better comprehension, which helps in citizenry participation and drives nation growth,” she added.
Expressing excitement over the momentum the initiative has gained, Dr. Ayensu Danquah lauded the Vice President for her leadership on the issue, calling it a “great cause” that deserves the collective support of all stakeholders in the education sector.
The growing advocacy for local language education is expected to spark nationwide conversations on curriculum reforms, as experts and policymakers weigh the benefits of teaching children in languages they speak at home—a move many believe could change Ghana’s basic education system.
By : Lawrence Appiani Yeboah