Ghana is considering a new bilateral agreement with the Republic of Colombia that would enable Ghanaian teachers to travel to the South American nation to support English language instruction. The initiative, which is currently under discussion, marks a significant expansion of the long-standing educational cooperation between the two countries.
The proposal was shared by Ghana’s Vice President, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, during a courtesy call on the Presidency by Colombia’s Vice President, Francia Elena Márquez Mina. The Colombian Vice President is on a three-day official visit to Ghana aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties, exploring new areas of cooperation, and reviewing progress made under existing agreements.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang stated that the government is enthusiastic about the prospect of expanding educational exchange between the two countries. She expressed appreciation for Colombia’s continued support in providing Spanish language instructors in Ghana, describing the programme as one that has transformed language education and strengthened cultural ties.
“Ghana particularly values Colombia’s enduring support for the teaching of the Spanish language in Ghana—a programme that has significantly enhanced institutional capacity and deepened cross-cultural understanding,” she said.
She referenced the graduation ceremony held on Wednesday, December 11, 2025, for the 12th cohort of Ghanaian students and professionals who completed Spanish language studies under the Ghana–Colombia programme. The Vice President noted that the success of the initiative presents a strong case for reciprocal support, where Ghana can export its English teaching expertise to Colombia.
“I was asking that we expand that path to send teachers of English from Ghana to Colombia, too,” she added, stressing that such an exchange would not only deepen educational cooperation but also strengthen people-to-people connections.
A Growing Bilateral Partnership
The Vice President highlighted the deepening relationship between Ghana and Colombia, pointing to multiple cooperation agreements already in effect. These agreements cover sectors including immigration, agriculture, political consultations, air services, education, technical cooperation, sports, and youth development.
“Our two countries have signed agreements and are undertaking joint projects in several areas, including immigration, agriculture, political consultations, air services, education, technical cooperation, sports and youth development,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said.
These partnerships, she emphasised, serve as a strong foundation upon which both nations can continue to build. She called for a renewed commitment to strengthening existing frameworks while exploring new avenues of cooperation that respond to emerging global and national priorities.
Expanding the Scope of Bilateral Engagement
The Vice President stressed that Ghana and Colombia share common aspirations in development, social progress, and global engagement. She emphasised that there is enormous potential for both countries to deepen cooperation in sectors that would bring mutual economic and cultural benefits.
She highlighted three key areas—trade, cultural exchange, and tourism—as essential frontiers that should be prioritised moving forward. In her remarks, she underscored Colombia’s globally recognised strengths in areas such as biodiversity-driven innovation, creative industries, and agro-processing.
“Equally significant is the prospect of deepening economic cooperation. Ghana recognises Colombia’s expertise in biodiversity-driven innovation, creative industries and agro-processing. While Colombia stands to benefit from our dynamic investment landscape and growing markets in agriculture, energy and services,” she stated.
Her comments reflect Ghana’s broader diplomatic strategy of leveraging international partnerships to enhance skills development, attract investment, and diversify economic opportunities.
Education at the Centre of Cooperation
One of the strongest pillars of Ghana–Colombia relations has been education. Colombia’s Spanish language teaching initiative in Ghana has grown steadily over the years, producing graduates who are now working across government institutions, academia, tourism, and international business.
The possibility of Ghana introducing an English language teaching exchange represents a major step forward in educational collaboration. Ghana is known for its strong foundation in English education and could provide Colombia with skilled instructors capable of supporting its language development goals.
For Ghanaian teachers, the programme would offer opportunities for international exposure, professional development, cultural exchange, and enhanced career prospects. For Colombia, it would help address gaps in English language instruction—a skill increasingly essential for global business, diplomacy, and higher education.
Such an exchange would mirror successful programmes between Colombia and other English-speaking nations, while giving Ghana a seat at the table in shaping international language education partnerships.
Strengthening Diplomatic and Cultural Relations
The visit of Vice President Francia Márquez Mina, a globally recognised champion of social justice and environmental protection, marks an important moment in Ghana–Colombia diplomatic relations. Her presence reflects Colombia’s desire to deepen ties with African nations, especially in areas of shared historical and cultural connections.
For Ghana, the visit signals an opportunity to expand its diplomatic horizons in South America, a region with growing economic prospects and strategic partnerships. Strengthening ties with Colombia also aligns with Ghana’s broader interest in fostering South–South cooperation.
During her interactions with Ghanaian officials, Vice President Márquez Mina is expected to discuss cooperation in the creative arts, Afro-descendant empowerment initiatives, rural development programmes, and climate solutions—areas where Colombia has strong expertise and shared cultural experiences with Ghana.
A Path Toward a Stronger Future
As bilateral discussions continue, both nations appear committed to building a partnership grounded in mutual respect, cultural appreciation, and shared development goals. The proposal to send Ghanaian English teachers to Colombia reflects not only educational collaboration but also the broader vision of enhancing global engagement and capacity building.
With both countries celebrating decades of friendship, the next chapter is expected to deliver innovative programmes, stronger ties, and expanded opportunities for their citizens.
Africalivenews will continue to provide updates as Ghana and Colombia advance discussions and formalise new cooperation frameworks.
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