By P. Vangerline Kpotoe
MONROVIA, May 19 (LINA) – The Government of Liberia has unveiled a major plan to build more than 100 new schools across the country in 2025, underscoring its strong commitment to strengthening the national education system as a pillar of sustainable development.
The announcement was made by Education Minister Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah during the ongoing “Deep Dives” sessions organized by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), which aim to enhance performance across government institutions.
Dr. Jallah disclosed that the initiative will be supported by the World Bank’s US$90 million Excellence in Learning in Liberia (EXCEL) project, which also includes expanding Liberia’s digital learning infrastructure.
“This isn’t just about expanding access, it’s about improving quality,” Minister Jallah said. “From constructing new schools and renovating old ones to deploying digital tools, we’re laying the foundation for a brighter future for Liberia’s children.”
She shared additional progress updates with the MFDP team: Over 2,000 volunteer teachers have been formally placed on the government payroll, 156 public schools now have computer labs under the IRIS Project, and 28 science labs are nearly completed, with 50 more planned through the Public Sector Investment Program (PSIP).
Dr. Jallah also announced an ongoing national internet access mapping project in partnership with the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), aimed at improving digital connectivity in schools.
Additionally, a new WASSCE preparation mobile app, developed by young Liberian tech innovators and supported by UNICEF and regional partners, is being piloted in five counties, already reaching over 2,000 students.
Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan praised the Education Ministry’s achievements, noting Dr. Jallah’s pivotal role in finalizing the EXCEL Project agreement.
“These reforms are not only bold—they are essential,” Minister Ngafuan stated. “Education is the bedrock of inclusive development. From Nimba to Bong, Margibi to Zorzor, every investment we make in our children’s education is an investment in Liberia’s future.”
He emphasized that the school construction plan aligns with the government’s ARREST Agenda and President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s vision, which places human capital development at the core of Liberia’s national transformation.
“The future of Liberia lies in our classrooms,” Ngafuan concluded, adding, “if we’re planning for a lifetime, we must educate our children.”
The “Deep Dives” initiative continues to drive inter-ministerial collaboration, accountability, and results-focused action to accelerate national development.
