“China has Expressed Interest in Training Teachers in Ghanaian Languages” – Professor Samuel Atintonu

The 8th Principal of Accra College of Education, Professor Samuel Awinkene Atintonu, has revealed that the Chinese government is showing keen interest in training teachers in Ghanaian languages. This announcement was made during his keynote address at the grand durbar of the University of Education, Winneba – Ajumako Campus’ annual Cultural Week Celebration on July 19th, 2024.

The grand durbar, a highlight of the Cultural Week Celebration, showcased the rich cultural heritage of Ghana through traditional music, dance, and performances. It provided an ideal backdrop for Professor Atintonu’s announcement, which was met with surprising reactions from attendees.

Professor Atintonu highlighted this development, expressing concern over the fact that Ghanaians are relying on China to undertake such an initiative. He also lamented the growing competition in the study of Chinese in Ghana, noting that universities and colleges of education, with the support of the Chinese government, are establishing professional centers to develop degree programs in Chinese whilst Ghanaians have not yet fully developed our own indigenous languages.

During his speech, this is what he said:

“Interestingly, there is a sudden high interest in the study of Chinese in Ghana. Universities are in stiff competition to establish professional centers, with the support of the Chinese government, to develop degree programs in Chinese. You can see this at Cape Coast [University of Cape Coast], the University of Ghana, Legon, and Tech [Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology], among others. Even the colleges of education are involved. Just last week, I was contacted about China’s interest in training teachers in Ghanaian languages.”

Professor Atintonu further elaborated on the importance of integrating Ghanaian languages into the educational curriculum, stressing that such efforts are crucial for maintaining the nation’s linguistic heritage and identity.

The Cultural Week Celebration at the University of Education, Winneba – Ajumako Campus, continues to be a vibrant event that not only celebrates Ghana’s cultural diversity but also serves as a platform for discussing innovative language education initiatives. This year’s edition started from Monday, 15th July to Friday, 19th July, with the theme “Promoting Ghanaian Languages in Education: A Catalyst for Enhancing Intercultural Relations and National Development.”