NATIONAL NEWS
CAPITOL HILL – The Liberian Senate has summoned senior government officials from several key ministries and agencies to appear before the Committee of the Whole on March 10, 2026, to address concerns surrounding the continued nonpayment of volunteer teachers and health workers across the country.
The decision follows a communication submitted by Amara M. Konneh, Senator of Gbarpolu County, who raised concerns about the conditions faced by hundreds of volunteers currently serving in the education and health sectors without being placed on the government payroll.
By Sampson W. Weah sampsonwweah7@gmail.com
Those invited to appear include Jarso M. Jallah, Minister of Education; Louise M. Kpoto, Minister of Health; Augustine K. Ngafuan, Minister of Finance and Development Planning; and Josiah F. Joekai Jr., Director General of the Civil Service Agency.
In his communication, Senator Konneh said the situation raises serious questions about accountability and the proper use of funds appropriated in the national budget for the education and health sectors.
“It is troubling that individuals who continue to serve in our classrooms and health facilities remain unpaid, even though the national budget provides allocations for these sectors,” Senator Konneh stated.
He noted that volunteer teachers and health workers continue to play an important role in maintaining essential services, particularly in rural communities where manpower remains limited.
“These individuals continue to make sacrifices to educate our children and provide healthcare services. It is our responsibility as lawmakers to ensure that the resources approved by the Legislature are used for their intended purposes,” he added.
Senator Konneh also used the opportunity to call for the reintroduction of Civics education in Liberia’s school curriculum, stressing that civic instruction is important for strengthening democratic values and responsible citizenship among young people.
“Reintroducing Civics in our schools will help raise a generation of citizens who understand their rights, duties, and the importance of contributing to national development,” he noted.
The Senate’s decision to invite the officials reflects growing concern among lawmakers over the welfare of volunteer workers who continue to support critical public services without formal compensation.
The March 10 hearing is expected to provide lawmakers with further clarity on the issue and outline possible steps toward addressing the situation.
