Excerpt
The Bureau of Ghana Languages (BGL) is a pivotal government agency in Ghana dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and development of the nation’s rich linguistic heritage. Established in 1951, the BGL has played a crucial role in fostering cultural identity and ensuring the vitality of Ghanaian languages.
Historical Background
Originally founded as the Vernacular Literature Bureau in 1951 under the Gold Coast Vernacular Literature Board Ordinance, the agency’s primary mission was to produce literature in various Ghanaian languages to support new literates. In 1958, it transitioned into a department under the Ministry of Information and was later moved to the Ministry of Education in 1963. Since December 1, 1989, following the enactment of the National Commission on Culture Act (PNDC Law 238), the Bureau has operated under the National Commission on Culture. Currently, it functions as a department within the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, as designated by the Executive Instrument that established the Ministry in 2017.
Mandate and Responsibilities
The BGL is entrusted with several key responsibilities aimed at promoting Ghanaian languages and culture:
Publication:
- Writing and publishing books in the fifteen examinable Ghanaian languages.
Translation:
- Translating documents between English and Ghanaian languages.
Research:
- Conducting research into various Ghanaian cultures for preservation in books, films, and other retrievable formats.
Assessment and Certification:
- Assessing, editing, and proofreading manuscripts for private authors, and vetting Ghanaian language publications to ensure correct orthography.
Standardization:
- Setting, monitoring, and enforcing standards for the publication of Ghanaian language reading materials.
Organizational Structure and Leadership
The Bureau operates under the leadership of an Acting Director, supported by a Deputy Director and other key personnel. As of the latest available information, the management team includes:
- Acting Director: Mr. Enoch Adinortey Adibuer
- Deputy Director: Ms. Adwoa Apraku
- Principal Accountant: Mrs. Safiatu Musah
- Assistant Director: Mr. Joseph Kofi Avunyra
The Bureau has offices in Accra and Tamale, facilitating its operations across the country.
Mode of Appointment and Recruitment
Recruitment and appointments within the BGL are conducted in accordance with the standard procedures for government agencies in Ghana. Vacancies are typically advertised publicly, and candidates are selected based on merit, qualifications, and experience relevant to the positions. Prospective applicants are advised to monitor official communications from the Bureau or the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture for recruitment announcements.
Collaborations and Partnerships
The BGL collaborates with various governmental and non-governmental organizations to fulfill its mandate. It works closely with educational institutions, cultural organizations, and international partners to promote the use of Ghanaian languages in education and media. These partnerships are vital for the development of language resources and the implementation of language policies.
Constitutional Reforms
Over the years, the Bureau has undergone several administrative changes to align with national cultural policies. Notably, the transition from the Vernacular Literature Bureau to the Bureau of Ghana Languages and its subsequent reassignments to different ministries reflect efforts to enhance its effectiveness in promoting Ghanaian languages. These reforms have been instrumental in shaping the Bureau’s current structure and mandate.
Achievements
Throughout its history, the Bureau has made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Ghanaian languages, including:
Publication of Literature:
- The production of numerous books and educational materials in various Ghanaian languages, supporting literacy and education.
Language Standardization:
- Establishing standardized orthographies for several Ghanaian languages, facilitating consistent writing and teaching methods.
Cultural Preservation:
- Documenting and preserving aspects of Ghanaian culture through research and publications, ensuring that traditional knowledge is passed down to future generations.
References
- https://www.bgl.gov.gh/about-us/
- https://www.motac.gov.gh/bureau-of-ghana-languages-bgl/
- https://www.bgl.gov.gh/management/
- https://www.graphic.com.gh/features/opinion/pay-attention-to-ghanaian-languages.html
- https://www.bgl.gov.gh/2019/02/25/promote-ghanaian-languages-in-educational-institutions/
- https://www.bgl.gov.gh/
- https://www.bgl.gov.gh/institutional-memory/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bureau_of_Ghana_Languages
- https://ghanadmission.com/bureau-of-ghana-languages-recruitment/
- https://www.developmentaid.org/organizations/view/231054/bureau-of-ghana-languages