The Department of Language and Communication Sciences at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, is set to run short courses in language proficiency from 2023/2024 Academic Year.

The languages to be taught under the programme are; Akan (Twi), Chinese (Mandarin), French and Spanish.

The Head of Department, Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria Ogunnike Faleke disclosed this in an interview with Ms. Abigail Ofori of the University Relations Office, KNUST.

Dr. (Mrs.) Faleke indicated that the short courses programme for language proficiency was designed to cater for a broad segment of the general public including students, foreigners, corporate professionals and executives, and individuals aspiring to learn new languages.

“The importance of language as a powerful tool for global communication cannot be over-emphasised, therefore, there is the need for individuals to be able to speak and understand at least one language other than their native languages to be able navigate the world effectively,” she noted.

She said the courses would have flexible duration options: two weeks (intensive), six weeks (balanced), and 12 weeks (comprehensive), with sessions on both weekends and weekdays.

She added that the 'Language for All' short courses programme is designed to make a significant impact on individuals seeking to expand their linguistic capabilities in an increasingly interconnected world.

Dr. Faleke was confident about the impact of the initiative, stressing that “this endeavour aligns with KNUST's commitment to fostering diverse language proficiency and cultural understanding.”

She indicated that interested individuals can pick registration forms at the Department of Language and Communication Sciences at KNUST, Kumasi Campus to register.

According to Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria Ogunnike Faleke, participants who successfully complete any of the courses would receive a Certificate of Completion/Attendance.