International Solidarity Volunteer at National Youth Authority Ghana (NYA), Koffi Seddoh has offered his take on the perception of French teachers in Ghana, suggesting that the ‘wickedness’ narrative associated with them is an inherited trait.
Seddoh made the observation on Episode 3 of Franco Vybz while discussing the teaching and learning of French in Ghana with Rev Erskine.
He shared that the narrative stems from a teaching method passed down through generations. He believes that this kind of teaching is practiced based on what some French Teachers experienced.
According to him, the reputation of French teachers being tough or “wicked” is on account of their commitment to ensuring that students grasp the fundamental principles of learning and speaking French. “Its the way they taught us to learn things. If you don’t want to learn, you will learn, if you want to learn, better for you,” he shared.
His, particularly among Ghanaian students who have encountered the subject in school.
Seddoh’s comment points to the long-standing perception surrounding the teaching of the French language. He however noted that a new generation of French teachers has moved away from such traditional teaching practices, embracing more effective and modern approaches, such as those championed by Alliance Française Ghana, which is dedicated to ensuring that French is not only studied but truly understood.
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 10:00PM.