Language within the Socio-Cultural Context of Ghana: Diversity and Inclusion Perspective

• Published in: The international journal of community diversity 2020-01, Vol.20 (1), p.11
• Main Authors: Erasmus, Kofi Appiah, Adeyeye, Olufemi Patrick
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Cultural Context; Debates; Environment; Language; Literature reviews; Multiculturalism & pluralism; Social evolution; Sociocultural factors
• ISSN: 2327-0004; 2327-2147
• DOI: 10.18848/2327-0004/CGP/v20i01/11-23

Diversity has been identified by scholars as a significant tool in recent time, and managing it effectively creates a competitive edge in organizations, and by extension, the larger society. Africa is not left out of this new wave of social evolution, leading to the continent being touted as the new frontier. However, Africa has a unique nature that is rooted in its languages, and Ghana mirrors this characteristic. The plethora of languages in Africa, and specifically in Ghana, epitomizes its unique nature: this characteristic may be at variance with what pertains in other regions of the world where language diversity may not be entrenched. Language is portrayed in this article as one of the critical elements found in a diverse environment. In this regard, this article advocates for efficient and context-specific management of language within the context of diversity and inclusion to develop a high sense of belonging (inclusiveness) in Ghana. The process may serve as a lever to transform the nation into a competitive environment in a globalized world. Besides, the article employs an in-depth literature review leading to an intimate connection with other empirical findings. To enforce the argument, the significance of language is highlighted through the description of the socio-cultural structure of Ghana. Additionally, the challenges encountered in ensuring inclusion in a diverse environment are identified to underscore the importance of context-specific approach. In grounding the argument in literature, language is portrayed as a cognitive system and a unique element in a diverse environment. In a nutshell, the thrust of this article is an argument in favor of an efficient and context-specific approach in managing language diversity, driven by socio-cultural dynamics in Ghana. To this end, the intellectual puzzle driving this article is language as a critical element in ensuring inclusion in a diverse environment such as Ghana.