Government asked to come clear on use of local language in schools

Government has been asked to come clear on its policy to allow the use of local languages to teach pupils in basic education.

Stakeholders contend that the clarity would guide teachers on its proper implementation and improve reading abilities among pupils that would enhance academic performance.

World Vision International, a non-governmental organization, says its research shows children’s inability to read resulted in poor outcomes.

It points to the unclear guidelines on the use of the local language alongside the English language to teach pupils lessons in schools.

The Education Technical Programme Manager of the World Vision International, Andrew Ofosu-Dankyi, says government and the Ministry of Education must define what teachers must do.

He adds his outfit intends to ensure the gaps are bridged in targeted communities over a five-year period.

3news.com gathers that for some kids, the more use of the local language at an early stage was best for them.

Teachers agreed kids must know their mother tongue, which is the local language, to help in transition for easy communication because of similarities in some sounds.

Mr Ofosu-Dankyi spoke about the education directorate’s NALAP policy, which was also in the same direction, and encouraged the use of local language progressively.

The Fanteakwa Education Director, Jacob Alagiwe, acknowledged the use of the local language more as the early stages of education was critical.

He was hopeful Circuit Supervisors and other education supervisors would be empowered to ensure policy directions on the use of local language is done.