The Bureau of Ghana Languages (BGL) has taken a decisive step toward strengthening indigenous language education by officially approving the Ahanta Language Orthography for use in schools. This landmark decision signals renewed national commitment to preserving and institutionalising the Ahanta language within Ghana’s formal education framework.
In a formal correspondence dated January 15, 2026, and addressed to the Member of Parliament for the Ahanta West Constituency, the Bureau explained that the endorsement followed an in-depth evaluation of a technical paper on the Ahanta Language Orthography. To ensure credibility and accuracy, BGL constituted a three-member assessment team to review the work of the Ahanta Language Project Committee (ALPC), paying close attention to how the newly developed writing system was being implemented and applied in real classroom settings.
The evaluation process extended beyond desk review. In collaboration with the Basic Schools’ Coordinator of the Ahanta West Municipal Education Office and the coordinator of the pilot Ahanta language teaching project, the team undertook field visits to selected schools involved in the pilot phase. These visits allowed the assessors to directly observe classroom instruction and engage with teachers and pupils using the orthography.
Beyond schools, the team also interacted with parents, traditional authorities, opinion leaders, church leaders and elders across the community. These engagements were aimed at confirming the level of acceptance, usage and cultural relevance of the orthography, as well as measuring community support for formal Ahanta language education.
Findings from the assessment were overwhelmingly positive. The Bureau reported that the Ahanta Language Orthography meets established linguistic and educational standards. It further highlighted the success of the pilot programme, noting strong enthusiasm from teachers and learners, as well as clear parental support. Traditional leaders, in particular, expressed keen interest in expanding Ahanta language instruction throughout Ahanta land.
On the basis of these outcomes, the Bureau of Ghana Languages formally endorsed the orthography for use in schools within Ahanta communities and for the production of teaching and learning materials. According to the Bureau, this approval is a critical milestone toward making Ahanta an examinable subject at both the Basic Education and Senior High School levels.
In addition, BGL has assured stakeholders of its readiness to certify all educational materials developed using the approved orthography. This move is expected to accelerate curriculum development, standardised instruction and broader acceptance of the Ahanta language within Ghana’s educational system, while reinforcing cultural identity and linguistic heritage for future generations.
