Ohio University Starts Teaching Twi Language, Ghanaians React

• One of Ghana's prestigious local languages, Twi, has been introduced as a new course subject at Ohio University
• The school explained that the Akan language courses focused on structure and how to communicate effectively
• Netizens who saw the post were joyous and celebrated Twi being introduced into the university's new curriculum

Ohio University has expanded its language program by introducing courses on Twi, a widely spoken Ghanaian language, into its curriculum.

This move reflected the institution’s dedication to fostering linguistic and cultural diversity while offering students a chance to explore African heritage through language studies.

What is the Ghanaian language Twi?

The Twi language is principally used by the Akan people, spoken by millions in Ghana and among the Ghanaian diaspora worldwide.

With its inclusion in the university’s language offerings, students would have the opportunity to develop proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and understanding the cultural significance of the language.

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According to details on the website of Ohio University, the new Twi course will be taught through the Center for International Studies, which oversees global language programs at Ohio University.

The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive approach, combining linguistic skills with cultural immersion to deepen students’ appreciation of the Ghanaian way of life.

"OHIO Akan language courses focus on the language's structure and how to communicate effectively while also exploring customs, beliefs, values, arts, literature, cuisine, social norms, and historical events that have shaped the language and its speakers.

This approach helps students communicate more effectively and appropriately in various social and cultural contexts," a post on the website of Ohio University said.

Ohio University has a strong tradition of offering a diverse range of languages, including Arabic, Mandarin, Japanese, and Swahili.

The introduction of Twi further enhances its commitment to global education, ensuring students have access to languages that play a significant role in international communication.

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A video of some foreign students in class being lectured by a Twi instructor has surfaced on social media.

See the post below:

Reactions to Ohio University offering Twi courses

The post on X sparked mixed reactions. Many expressed their delight in the comments section while others were not impressed.

@IcemanGotmarri1 wrote:

"They want to come and do galamsey thus why they are learning twi."

@EnKQ_20 wrote:

"Them for make Twene Jonas teach the Asante Twi for there."

@DENNISAMPO22231 wrote:

"Is it not the Twi alphabet he’s suppose to teach them and their sounds so they can form words on their own ??"

@KAppiadu wrote:

"Some people too be shouting “de-Akanisation” on the other end."

@NiiKwameDennis wrote:

"You’ll realize the importance of the Twi language when when you want to contest for the highest position in this country.Twi can’t be official language blablabla,they try so hard to fight against everything Asante’ the more you hate them the more they keep getting bigger."

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@Ayeduase_Yesu wrote:

"It's lovely."

@rich57499 wrote:

"Wow 🤩."

Haruna Iddrisu speaks fluent Twi with Otumfuo

Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu visited Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at the Manhyia Palace.

A video of the Education Minister speaking Twi with the Asantehene as a sign of respect has sparked reactions on social media.

Iddrisu did significantly well as he explained to the king of the Asante Kingdom the purpose of his visit to the Manhyia Palace in Twi.

Source: YEN.com.gh