Educationist Nichrine Boadi Appiah has criticised the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) over its decision to introduce the Chinese language into Ghana’s educational curriculum, warning that the move could weaken the country’s cultural identity.
Speaking on the Ebaanosen Show on Plan B 104.5 FM, Mr. Appiah stressed that language is inseparable from culture and must be preserved through early education to prevent indigenous languages from fading out.
He acknowledged that English already serves as Ghana’s official language for international communication due to the country’s colonial history. Against this backdrop, he questioned the necessity of elevating Chinese to a near-national status, arguing that alternative communication channels exist for trade and international relations.
According to him, the policy risks indirectly promoting Chinese culture over Ghanaian culture, a situation he believes contradicts national efforts to protect local heritage. He made it clear that he does not agree with NaCCA’s position on the matter.
Mr. Appiah called for a renewed focus on strengthening Ghanaian languages through deliberate policies, including training more teachers in indigenous languages and expanding their use in schools and public spaces.
“As responsible Ghanaians, we must do more to ensure our local languages rise,” he said, insisting that no justification should place the promotion of a foreign language above Ghana’s own languages.
By: Abigail Oppong Boateng/Planbfmonline.com
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