House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, recently highlighted the pressing challenges facing the education sector in Liberia during an Education Engagement Meeting on Capitol Hill. Speaker Koffa emphasized the need for concrete steps to improve the quality of education in the country.
Among the challenges discussed, Speaker Koffa raised concerns about the conferment of degrees on graduates who may not possess the necessary skills to defend their academic credentials. He also pointed out the deplorable learning conditions in rural areas, hindering effective learning at the tertiary level.
The Speaker noted the existing logistical and manpower gaps in the education sector, with retired teachers and volunteer teachers facing financial constraints. Failure to address these issues could adversely impact both students and educators, he warned.
In response to these challenges, Speaker Koffa proposed investing in Technical Vocational Education to enhance the skills of the country’s workforce. He stressed the importance of preparing young people for the future and ensuring generational readiness.
Representative Romeo Quioh, the House’s Chairman on Education, echoed the need for collaboration among education stakeholders to develop effective strategies for enhancing productivity in the sector. He recommended organizing an education stakeholders retreat to foster dialogue and partnership.
The Education Engagement Meeting, held on May 27, 2024, brought together key authorities from the Ministry of Education, Monrovia Consolidated School System, and the Parents Teachers Association, demonstrating a united effort to address the challenges facing Liberia’s education system.
Speaker Koffa pledged the legislature’s support for initiatives aimed at improving education in the country.
