Ghanaians urged to learn foreign languages

Kumasi, Dec. 21, GNA - Alhaji Ahmed Badawi, Assistant Head of Kumasi Branch of Ghana Institute of Languages (GIL) has appealed to Ghanaians to learn foreign languages for effective communication in this era of globalisation. He said this would also promote development and cooperation on the Continent, enhance business transactions among countries and an easy access to the job market. Alhaji Badawi made the appeal at the matriculation of 500 students and swearing-in of new Students' Representative Council (SRC) Executives of the branch in Kumasi. GIL was established in 1962 to train students in English, French, German, Spanish, Arabic, and assist illiterates to read and write effectively.

Alhaji Badawi noted that effective cooperation could be achieved through learning to speak each other's language. "Ghana is surrounded by French speaking countries but most Ghanaians cannot interact with their neighbours effectively because of the language barrier while their counterparts can communicate in the English Language," he added. He expressed concern about most citizens in neighbouring countries fast becoming bilingual while Ghanaians were complacent with their ability to speak only English Language. "Our unwillingness to promote the learning of French and other languages is impacting negatively on us in terms of employment opportunities in international organizations and cost of transacting international business as we resort to the use of translators and interpreters," he said.

However, Alhaji Badawi commended Government for promoting the teaching and learning of French in educational institutions. Sheikh Mohammed Ahmed Nazir , Head of Arabic Department said, most equipment for teaching and learning were outmoded and called on Government to replace them to promote effective teaching and learning. He called for the refurbishment of the institute's library and upgrading with the provision of teaching theatres to enhance practical work.

Sheikh Ahmed Nazir advised the students to be disciplined to uphold the institute's image and take their learning serious to justify the investments made on them. He called on them to exercise their franchise on December 28 and eschew acts that could incite people to cause chaos during and after the run-off. 21 Dec. 08