By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
MONROVIA – In a decisive move to reshape Liberia’s education landscape, the Government of Liberia has announced plans to build more than 100 new schools across the country starting this year.
The initiative, unveiled by Education Minister Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah during the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning’s (MFDP) ongoing “Deep Dives” sessions, underscores the government’s commitment to human capital development as a pillar of national growth.
Backed by a US$90 million investment from the World Bank under the Excellence in Learning in Liberia (EXCEL) project, the effort goes beyond brick-and-mortar construction.
It also includes digital infrastructure expansion, science and computer lab development, and teacher workforce improvements—all aimed at closing long-standing gaps in access and quality.
“Our mission is not just about access but about quality,” Dr. Jallah 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.”
Major Education Sector Gains
Dr. Jallah highlighted several recent milestones, including over 2,000 volunteer teachers added to the government payroll, 156 schools now equipped with computer labs via the IRIS Project, 28 new science labs near completion, with 50 more planned under the Public Sector Investment Program (PSIP), A mobile app pilot in five counties to support WASSCE preparation, benefiting over 2,000 students, in collaboration with UNICEF and regional partners and an ongoing national internet access mapping effort with the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA).
A Strategic, Inclusive Vision
Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan praised the Education Ministry’s progress, particularly Dr. Jallah’s leadership in finalizing the EXCEL agreement with the World Bank.
He emphasized that the government’s education reforms are grounded in a strategic balance between infrastructure development and improvements in teaching quality through technology and training.
“The reforms are both exciting and impactful,” said Minister Ngafuan. “Education is the bedrock of inclusive development… Liberia’s future is in the classroom.”
Part of a Broader Development Agenda
The announcement is part of the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, which prioritizes Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism.
Through the inter-ministerial “Deep Dives,” key ministries are setting measurable goals to ensure accountability and progress.
Both ministers reiterated their alignment with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s national development vision, which places education at the heart of Liberia’s strategy to reduce poverty, promote equity, and empower future generations.
