Established in 1964, the Department of Linguistics has earned the reputation of being at the forefront of teaching and research on languages spoken in Ghana (e.g. English, Akan, Ewe, Ga, Dangme, Dagaare, Dagbani and a host of other, lesser known, languages, including Sεlεε, Tafi, Logba, Ɔkere, Efutu, Gikyode, Gua, Kaakyi, Lεtε, Dompo). The Department mounts BA, MA, MPhil and PhD in Linguistics programmes as well as MA, MPhil and PhD in Teaching of English as a Second Language (TESL) programmes. Long noted for its strength in the core areas of linguistics (phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax and semantics) and ethnolinguistics, there is growing recognition too in such applied linguistics sub-fields as pragmatics, sociolinguistics, and discourse analysis. We also run courses on sign language and translation/interpretation. LINGSA (our students’ association) has a motto, “No Language, No Society”, an appreciation of the insights they gain through their studies here. After their studies, they integrate seamlessly into the workforce: some of them go on to man similar programmes in sister universities or teach language-related courses in secondary schools while others apply their skills in business, media, law, and politics.
COVID-19 the world over is threatening to dampen the shine that comes with face-to-face communication, such as in lecture halls. However, at Linguistics, you will find a situation where you will not miss the lecture halls, a situation where you will feel that you are still part of a vibrant speech community despite COVID’s physical restrictions. You will become part of this leadership in the new world order. You are welcome home.
Prof. Evershed Kwasi Amuzu
Head of Department