The Government of Liberia has announced an ambitious plan to construct over 100 new schools nationwide starting this year. This initiative is part of a broader educational reform agenda aimed at enhancing the country's educational infrastructure and improving learning outcomes.
Education Minister Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah made the announcement during the "Deep Dives" sessions organized by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP). The sessions are designed to enhance efficiency across government ministries, agencies, and commissions.
Dr. Jallah stated that the World Bank's US$90 million Excellence in Learning in Liberia (EXCEL) project will fund not only the construction of new schools but also the expansion of digital learning infrastructure in Liberia. She described the initiative as a significant step toward addressing longstanding gaps in education infrastructure, with a focus on both access and quality.
"Our mission is not just about access but about quality," she said. "From constructing new schools to renovating existing ones and providing digital tools for learning, we are shaping a better future for Liberia’s children."
Minister Jallah also provided updates on progress within the education sector, noting that over 2,000 volunteer teachers have been added to the government payroll to tackle labor challenges. Additionally, 156 public schools now have computer labs through the IRIS Project, and 28 science labs are nearing completion with plans for 50 more under the Public Sector Investment Program (PSIP).
She highlighted ongoing digital initiatives such as an internet access mapping exercise conducted with the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA). A mobile application developed by young Liberian tech innovators is being tested in five counties to assist over 2,000 students preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), supported by UNICEF and regional partners.
Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan praised the Education Ministry's efforts, particularly Dr. Jallah’s role in finalizing the EXCEL Project agreement with the World Bank. He emphasized that these reforms balance infrastructure development with improvements in educational quality through teacher training and technology integration.
"The reforms are both exciting and impactful," said Minister Ngafuan. "Education is the bedrock of inclusive development, and the initiatives we are supporting—whether in Nimba, Bong, Margibi, or teacher colleges in Kakata, Zorzor, and Webbo—are investments in Liberia’s future."
The "Deep Dives" session forms part of a wider inter-ministerial effort to identify specific sector challenges, assign responsibilities, and set measurable targets to accelerate progress. Minister Ngafuan stressed sustained accountability and collaboration as crucial for achieving the government's ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
"If we are planning for a lifetime, we must educate our children," he declared. "Liberia’s future is in the classroom."
Both ministers reiterated their commitment to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s national vision that prioritizes human capital development through education as central to Liberia's development strategy. The ongoing reforms aim to reduce poverty, promote equity, and empower future generations through inclusive quality education.
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