Prioritise teaching of Ga language in Accra schools

Dear Editor

 I am writing to express my deep concern about the disappearance of our cultural identity in the Greater Accra Region.

The teaching of foreign languag­es in our schools is depriving the indigenous people of Accra of their rich cultural heritage. Language is an integral part of one’s culture and identity, and we must prioritise the preservation of our native languages.

As a proud resident of Accra, I am dismayed by the fact that our schools are promoting languages that are not native to our region.

The Ga language, which is the in­digenous language of Accra, is being pushed aside for languages that are alien to the region. I strongly believe that this agenda must be reversed to preserve our cultural identity.

It is interesting to note that other regions in Ghana do not teach the Accra language (Ga) in their schools. Instead, they prioritise their own indigenous languages.

Why then should the Greater Accra Region be an exception? Why should we allow our cultural identity to be eroded by the teaching of alien languages? I believe that it is the re­sponsibility of our paramount chief, (Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru ll) and other leaders to protect and preserve our cultural heritage.

The Paramount Chief, in collab­oration with the government, must take immediate action to stop all schools in the Greater Accra Region from teaching other languages apart from the Ga language.

This is not to say that learning other languages is not important, but rather that our native language should be given priority to ensure that our children grow up with a strong sense of cultural identity and appreciation for their heritage.

Furthermore, I believe that the private sector also has a role to play in promoting our indigenous lan­guage.

Private schools and institutions should be encouraged to prioritise the teaching of the Ga language in the region, rather than focusing sole­ly or partially on other languages. By working together, we can ensure that our cultural identity is preserved for future generations.

It is worth noting that language is not just a means of communication; it is also a symbol of our cultural identity.

When we lose our language, we risk losing our culture and heritage. I urge the government and other stakeholders to take this issue seri­ously and take immediate action to protect our cultural identity.

I am not advocating the exclusion of other languages, but rather for a balanced approach that prioritises our native language.

When we promote the Ga lan­guage, we can ensure that our children are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their communities.

In conclusion, I urge the govern­ment to take immediate action to stop the teaching of foreign languag­es in schools in the Greater Accra Region and to prioritise the teaching of the Ga language.

Let us work together to preserve our cultural identity and ensure that our children grow up with a strong sense of who they are and where they come from.

Thank You.

Jerry Fiadzenu,

Aburi