Some students of UniMAC at the event
The German Embassy is strengthening its educational partnership with Ghana through access to German language education, teacher training and opportunities for young people to pursue higher education, vocational training and careers in Germany.
Speaking at the German Language Day celebration held at the German International School Accra, the embassy’s representative, Sarah Pfaffernoschke, explained that the event aims to highlight the growing importance of German language learning in connecting people, cultures and countries, noting that proficiency in the language can open doors for young Ghanaians in several sectors, including healthcare, engineering, skilled trades, technology and research, since the country continues to have a growing demand for qualified professionals.
“Learning German is much more than signing a job or pursuing a career. Language is what allows you not only to arrive in a country but also to feel at home there,” she stated.
She added that learning a foreign language goes beyond communication, as it enables individuals to understand different cultures, build friendships and become part of new communities.
She further identified the University of Education, Winneba, as an important partner in efforts to expand German language teaching, noting that the first cohort of more than 100 Ghanaian German language teachers are expected to graduate next year.
“This is a remarkable development, because every new German teacher brings the language to more students, opens up new opportunities and helps build lasting connections between our two countries,” she stated.
Ms. Pfaffernoschke also urged German language learners not to become discouraged by the challenges associated with mastering the language, indicating that learners are sometimes faced with German articles such as “der, die, and das”. She reminded participants that consistent practice and perseverance are necessary to achieving fluency.
“As we say in German, ‘Übung macht den Meister’ – practice makes perfect. So keep going, be curious, be courageous and, above all, enjoy the journey,” she stressed.
She reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting the growing community of German language learners, teachers and enthusiasts in Ghana, stressing the importance of continued collaboration between the two countries.
The celebration brought together key stakeholders in German language education, including representatives of the Goethe-Institut, DAAD, GIZ, AHK Ghana, Allianz Deutsche Sprache Ghana, PASCH schools, the University of Education, Winneba, University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) and other partner institutions.
The event featured music, interactive activities, cultural presentations and German cuisine, providing participants with an opportunity to experience aspects of German culture.
By Florence Adom Asamoah