In a bid to preserve cultural heritage and strengthen identity, the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for the compulsory teaching of Ga and Dangme languages in all basic schools, both public and private, across Ga and Dangme communities, beginning with the next academic year.
The King stressed that the initiative is not merely about language instruction but about safeguarding the history, values, and traditions embodied in indigenous languages.
“Language is the vessel of culture. To lose it is to lose our story, our values, and our identity,” King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II said, adding that compulsory teaching would ensure future generations remain connected to their roots while strengthening their sense of pride and belonging.
For centuries, the Ga and Dangme communities have played a central role in Ghana’s cultural and historical development. Yet, their languages face decline, especially among the youth. By weaving Ga and Dangme into the curriculum, the King believes schools can act as custodians of culture, keeping alive the collective memory of the people.
Cultural historians and linguists share this view, noting that languages carry not only oral traditions but also unique worldviews. “When a language dies, an entire worldview vanishes with it,” one expert remarked during the celebration.
Beyond cultural preservation, the King highlighted the educational benefits of bilingual instruction. Research shows that children who begin learning in their mother tongue often perform better academically, demonstrate stronger problem-solving skills, and show greater creativity.
“Teaching Ga and Dangme is not only about culture, it is about creating well-rounded, confident, and high-achieving students,” the King explained. “Our children will learn better when they begin with what they know best, their own language.”
He urged the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service to integrate Ga and Dangme into the national curriculum, allocate resources for teacher recruitment and training, and provide textbooks and audio-visual materials. He also encouraged community workshops for parents to support learning at home.
“This is a cultural necessity, not just an educational reform,” he stressed. “If we do not act now, the risk of losing our language, and with it, our identity, will only grow.”
As he concluded, “When our children speak Ga and Dangme, they speak the heartbeat of their people. Let us give them that voice.”
Source: gbcghanaonline
