International Solidarity Volunteer at the National Youth Authority (NYA), Koffi Seddoh has advised people learning foreign languages to develop the habit of thinking in the language they are trying to master.
Speaking on Episode 3 of Franco Vybz with Rev Erskine,
Seddoh noted that being able to think in a foreign language is done by embracing the ideology of the people that speak the said language.
“In order to learn a foreign language, you must first off all think in that foreign language; just like how we did with our mother tongue before speaking.”
He explained that language learning goes beyond memorising words and phrases, stressing the importance of gradually developing the ability to understand the language through signs and gestures. “Language is not the only way to communicate. You can communicate with other things. Sign communication is a way to begin.”
Seddoh believes this approach can help learners become more comfortable and fluent as they engage with a foreign language like French.
The conversation formed part of the third episode of FrancoVybz, hosted by award-winning broadcaster Rev Erskine. The podcast seeks to examine the cultural, creative and professional connections between Ghana and the Francophone world, while creating a platform for discovery and exchange among young audiences.
FrancoVybz airs on all YFM Ghana stations every Saturdays (Y107.9FM in Accra at 3:30pm; Y102.5FM in Kumasi & Y97.9FM in Takoradi at 5:30pm) with repeats on Wednesdays at 10pm.
Episodes are also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Audiomack under the name FrancoVybz.