Monrovia, Liberia–The Government of Liberia (GOL) has pledged to construct over 100 new schools across the country beginning 2025, while reinforcing its commitment to making quality education accessible for all.
The announcement came during the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning’s (MFDP) “Deep Dives” initiative, which brings together ministries and agencies to drive better coordination and results.
Speaking during the session, Education Minister Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah emphasized that the new school construction is part of a larger education reform effort backed by the World Bank’s US$90 million Excellence in Learning in Liberia (EXCEL) project.
“This initiative is about access, equity, and quality,” Minister Jallah stated. “We are not just building schools; we are building a foundation for national transformation.”
In addition to new schools, the EXCEL project will support the expansion of digital learning tools and renovation of existing educational facilities.
Dr. Jallah highlighted significant strides already made in the sector, including: The absorption of 2,000 volunteer teachers into the public payroll; Installation of computer labs in 156 public schools through the IRIS Project. Completion of 28 science laboratories, with 50 more planned under the Public Sector Investment Program (PSIP); A nationwide internet mapping initiative in collaboration, with the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), to support digital learning across the fifteen counties.
Innovations also include a new mobile app developed by young Liberian tech innovators, now piloting in five counties. The app is already helping over 2,000 students prepare for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), with support from UNICEF and other partners.
Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan applauded the Education Ministry’s leadership, especially Dr. Jallah’s role in finalizing the EXCEL agreement with the World Bank.
“The reforms are both exciting and impactful,” said Minister Ngafuan. “From Nimba to Bong, Margibi to Webbo, these investments are laying the groundwork for inclusive development.”
The “Deep Dives” initiative is part of the government’s broader push under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s ARREST Agenda, aimed at accelerating results and fostering accountability across key development sectors.
“If we are planning for a lifetime, we must educate our children,” Ngafuan stressed. “Liberia’s future is in the classroom.”
With education now squarely at the center of national planning, the government’s renewed focus promises not just new buildings, but a brighter future for thousands of Liberian children.
