Celebrating Indigenous Languages: Ghanaian Festival calls for inclusion in education

The “Lade Wosornu Festival of Poetry and Mother Tongue” was launched in Accra, Ghana, with a passionate plea to integrate indigenous languages into the country’s educational curriculum. The event, held in collaboration with UNESCO, highlighted the global effort to preserve and promote native languages during the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (IDIL 2022-2032).

Preserving Linguistic and Cultural Diversity

Professor Wosornu, a renowned Ghanaian poet and retired surgeon, emphasized the urgent need for the Ministry of Education and Ghana Education Service to prioritize Ghanaian languages, suggesting the use of Artificial Intelligence to encourage their use. “We must leverage AI to promote the use of our mother tongues in education. The current shortage of Ga language teachers is evidence of the neglect faced by indigenous languages,” he stressed.

The Power of Poetry and Literature

The festival featured vibrant poetry recitals and a tribute to Professor Wosornu’s works, which have been included in the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) curricula for basic and senior high schools. Edmond Moukala, UNESCO Representative in Ghana, noted the crucial role of poetry in preserving linguistic and cultural diversity among indigenous communities. “Many endangered languages worldwide are indigenous, vital for expressing self-determination and preserving cultural heritage,” he said.

Promoting Holistic Learning through STEAM Education

Moukala also highlighted the importance of STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) in shaping holistic learning, creativity, interdisciplinary skills, career readiness, engagement, motivation, inclusion, and diversity. “The Creative and Cultural Industries (CCIs) significantly contribute to the global economy, and poetry and literature are integral to this sector,” he added.

Solidarity and Support

The Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) expressed solidarity with Professor Wosornu’s advocacy, affirming that the initiative aligns with their mission to promote African literature in native African languages. “PAWA pledges its support to this project, which aligns with our mission to promote African literature in native African languages,” they stated.

International Mother Language Day Celebrations

In related efforts, the Accra Metro NCCE Office observed International Mother Language Day with a Ga language reading session at the Kaneshie Bishop Basic School, part of activities in 15 selected schools across the Greater Accra Region aimed at promoting the use of indigenous languages.

This event highlights the importance of preserving linguistic and cultural diversity among indigenous communities, promoting poetry and literature as forms of creativity and cultural expression, and shaping holistic learning through STEAM education. By integrating indigenous languages into education, Ghana can take a vital step towards preserving its rich cultural heritage for future generations.

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