Public perception of early childhood language policy in Ghana: an exploratory study

• Published in: Early years (London, England) Vol. 39; no. 3; pp. 310 - 325
• Main Authors: Bronteng, Joyce Esi, Berson, Ilene R., Berson, Michael J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Routledge 03.07.2019; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Academic Achievement; Bilingualism; early childhood; Early Childhood Education; English; English Only Movement; Foreign Countries; Ghana; Grade 3; Grade 4; Grade 6; Language Arts; Language of Instruction; Language policy; Language Usage; Mathematics Achievement; mother tongue-based bilingual medium of instruction (MTB-BMoI); Native Language; Parent Attitudes; Public Opinion; Public Policy; School Personnel; Young Children; Ghana
• ISSN: 0957-5146; 1472-4421
• DOI: 10.1080/09575146.2019.1631759

This article explores current public perceptions in Ghana about the National Literacy Acceleration Programme (NALAP), a mother tongue-based bilingual medium of instruction (MTB-BMoI) policy for early childhood education. The researchers conducted an exploratory study of public reactions towards the Minister for Education's statement on revamping the program made at the Shared Prosperity Forum held in Accra, Ghana. The article includes an overview of the history of early childhood education language of instruction (LoI) in Ghana and the rationale for the NALAP. Conversations with education officers and parents about their views on the NALAP were analyzed. The findings reflect strong negative feelings about the program among many Ghanaians who express a preference for English-only LoI. The paper discusses the importance of bilingual LoI in early childhood as well as the need to obtain public support, especially among parents, to facilitate full implementation of the program in Ghana. Recommendations for public engagement are proposed.