The Ghanaian Parliament has announced plans to promote the use of local languages on the floor of the House in order to preserve the country’s culture and prevent it from becoming extinct.
This new initiative is in line with Order 63 of the new Standing Orders, which allows Members of Parliament (MPs) to use local languages with interpretation and translation to ensure understanding by all members.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has confirmed that necessary facilities, including translators and appropriate gadgets, will be put in place for a smooth take-off of this new language policy. The implementation of this policy is expected to begin during the second meeting of the fourth session of the Eighth Parliament, following the Easter break.
The decision to promote the use of local languages in Parliament gained momentum during a recent session, when the Second Deputy Minority Leader, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, presented a statement for the promotion and preservation of the Nzema Language. Mr. Buah highlighted the declining interest in the teaching and learning of local languages, despite their inclusion in the curriculum of basic and senior high schools.
This initiative has received widespread support from MPs who called for the use of local languages in basic schools to promote proper understanding of various subjects, similar to the approach used in the teaching of science subjects in Asia Tigers. As a result, the Speaker directed that the statement be referred to the committees on Education, Culture, Tourism, and Finance for further deliberation and a decision to be taken.
The implementation of the local language policy is part of the Parliament’s broader efforts to instil discipline, promote a sense of duty, and enhance patriotism among MPs and citizens. This new approach aims to make the attendance list more credible and erase doubts about the presence of members in the chamber, especially during crucial voting periods.
The use of local languages in Parliament aligns with the country’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and promoting linguistic diversity. It also reflects the Parliament’s recognition of the importance of embracing local languages in education and governance.
