On November 19, 2024, the United States Government, through USAID, in partnership with the Liberian Ministry of Education, launched the Liberia Foundational Skills Activity (LFSA). This five-year, $75 million initiative aims to strengthen English literacy skills for over 120,000 students in Grades 1–6 across six counties: Bong, Grand Bassa, Lofa, Margibi, Montserrado, and Nimba. Targeting 70% of public schools, LFSA seeks to address critical gaps in literacy education and reinforce national education standards, laying a strong foundation for sustainable development and economic resilience.
Support for Teachers and Inclusive Learning
In October 2024, Education Minister Dr. Jarso Jallah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting teachers and promoting inclusive education. Speaking at the Mastercard Foundation’s Leaders in Teaching (LIT) Initiative workshop, Dr. Jallah emphasized the importance of improving teaching standards, working conditions, and professional support. The LIT program, part of the broader Young Africa Works initiative, focuses on recruiting quality teachers, training in digital literacy, improving school leadership, and enhancing teacher motivation. Since its launch in 2018, it has supported over 42,000 teachers and education leaders, positively impacting more than 550,000 students.
Reintroduction of Civics Education
The Ministry of Education has also emphasized the need for civics to be taught in all schools across Liberia. In February 2025, Education Minister Dr. Ansu Sonii supported the Governance Commission’s development of a National Curriculum on Citizenship Education. The reintroduction of civics aims to educate students on their rights, responsibilities, and obligations to the country, fostering a sense of patriotism and addressing issues such as corruption. The ministry is seeking support to print more copies of the curriculum and civics books to ensure widespread availability to students.
These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to improve literacy rates, support educators, and promote civic responsibility among students, contributing to a more robust and inclusive education system in Liberia.