Ministry of Education clarifies basic school language policy, says foreign languages will remain optional

The Ministry of Education has issued a clarification on the Government's proposed language of instruction policy for basic schools, seeking to dispel widespread misconceptions and reassure the public that foreign languages have not been made compulsory under the revised curriculum.

In a statement, the Ministry stressed that the revised language policy is designed to improve literacy, learning outcomes and cognitive development by ensuring that children begin their education in a language they understand best before gradually transitioning to English.

The Ministry said the revised language policy is informed by internationally recognised educational principles, which recommend that children begin learning in their first language before gradually acquiring additional languages.