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The Founder and Leader of Open Arms Ministry, St. Sark, has cautioned the President of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, and the Minister of Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, against plans to introduce Chinese and Arabic languages into Ghana’s basic school syllabus.
Speaking at a press conference in Kumasi, the outspoken preacher said the move, if implemented, would be detrimental to Ghanaian children and to the country’s cultural and educational direction.
“Dare not, stop the introduction of Chinese and Arabic languages into our syllabus,” St. Sark warned.
Spanish Should Be Priority, Not Chinese Or Arabic
St. Sark argued that if Ghana intends to introduce any additional foreign language into its curriculum, the choice should be Spanish and not Chinese or Arabic.
According to him, Spanish is more widely spoken globally, more relevant for international communication, business and migration opportunities, and easier to align with Ghana’s existing educational framework which is already rooted in European languages.
“If there’s a language we even want our children to learn it should rather be Spanish language,” he stated.
He questioned the rationale behind considering Chinese and Arabic, saying Ghana must be careful not to import cultural and ideological influences that could confuse young learners or conflict with national values.
A Call For Caution In Language Policy
The Open Arms Ministry leader said language is not just a tool for communication but a carrier of culture, belief systems and worldview. He therefore urged government to tread cautiously in adopting new languages for young pupils who are still forming their identity and understanding of the world.
He noted that Ghana is already struggling with falling standards in English and local language proficiency, and introducing two complex foreign languages like Chinese and Arabic could further burden teachers and learners.
He called on the Ministry of Education to focus on strengthening the teaching of Ghanaian local languages and English, while improving science, technology and vocational education, rather than introducing languages that may not offer immediate practical benefits to the average Ghanaian child.
Appeal To President And Education Minister
St. Sark appealed directly to President Mahama and Hon. Haruna Iddrisu to reconsider the policy and to engage widely with stakeholders including religious leaders, educationists, parents and traditional authorities before any such major curriculum reform is introduced.
He said any decision on language policy should prioritize national interest, employability of Ghanaian youth in the global market, and preservation of Ghanaian cultural identity.
He concluded by urging government to listen to the concerns of citizens and to ensure that educational reforms reflect the aspirations of Ghanaians rather than external pressures.
