The Ghana Library Authority (GhLA) is hosting its inaugural Library conversation dubbed, “Language Preserved on Pages”, to mark International Mother Language Day 2026 on Friday, February 20.
The event, in partnership with Creative Arts Agency (CAA), explores the role of books and translation in preserving Ghanaian languages, spotlighting renowned poet/essayist Professor Ladé Wosornu’s translated poems, including The Master Brewer, Journey Without End and Celestial Bride.
A panel discussion, led by Professor Ephraim Avea Nsoh, Senior lecturer, University of Education-Winneba; Dr Sarah Dorgbadzi, Senior Lecturer, School of Performing Arts, University of Ghana and Mr Richardson Fio Commey, Policy Expert and Special Aide to the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, will delve into the significance of literary translation.
The event also features performances and a Q&A session with Professor Wosornu.
Dr Clement Abas Apaak, Deputy Minister of Education, is the Special Guest of Honour. Edmond Moukala, UNESCO Country Representative and other dignitaries will also attend.
The event aims to promote Ghanaian languages and highlight the importance of translation in preserving cultural heritage, with discussions and performances featuring Professor Wosornu’s work.
International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in November 1999. The idea of celebrating International Mother Language Day originated in Bangladesh. The UN General Assembly welcomed the proclamation of the day in its resolution of 2002.
In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution A/RES/61/266, called upon Member States “to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world”.
This year’s will be marked on Saturday, February 21, on the theme, “Youth voices on multilingual education”.
Ghana’s celebration is, therefore, aligned with efforts to promote linguistic diversity and multilingual education, emphasising the role of young people in preserving cultural heritage.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh
