The Ghana Institute of Languages (GIL), would from July this year, introduce the teaching and learning of the Chinese language at its Kumasi Campus, Dr John Rex Amuzu Gadjepko, the Director of the school has announced.

He said they would also set up a Department of Ghanaian Languages to cater for Ga, Akan, Krobo, Ewe, Akan and other local languages.

He was speaking at the sixth graduation ceremony held for 318 students, including 53 foreigners.

Dr Gadjepko said given the growing influence of China as a global economic powerhouse, Ghanaians necessarily have to strive to achieve some level of proficiency in the Chinese language to foster trade.

According to him, the Institute would continue to work with passion to tear down language barriers to promote unity, understanding and harmony among people.

“The numerous challenges notwithstanding, GIL has turned out communicators and language operators working both in Ghana and internationally.”

He asked the graduating students to take pride of the acquisition of at least one international language, elevating them to the group of about one percent of the world’s population who could communicate in two international languages.

The Director urged them to become good ambassadors of the GIL.

Nana Adomako-Ansah, Ankaasehene, advised Ghanaians, especially the youth to put premium on learning other languages to strengthen the bond of unity and cohesion of the society.

Nana Kyei Baffour II, Asemhene, advised the students to be proud of their own language even as they learn to communicate in English, French, German, Arabic, Spanish and other international languages.