MONROVIA – Education Minister, Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, has launched a nationwide initiative aimed at bringing 250,000 out-of-school children back into classrooms, announcing that registration fees have been waived in seven counties for children who have not enrolled for two years or more. Speaking to the Senate Committee on Education on Thursday, September 4, 2025, Dr. Jallah emphasized the government’s commitment to improving both enrollment and learning conditions.
“We have waived registration fees in seven counties for children who have not enrolled in school for two years or more. We will also provide book bags to support their return. This initiative aims to boost enrollment. Our goal is to get 250,000 kids back in school. UNICEF is a partner in this endeavor,” Dr. Jallah told lawmakers.
The minister highlighted progress in school infrastructure, noting that 25 of the 150 public schools identified as needing urgent renovations have already been refurbished. “Renovation efforts will continue throughout the academic year to ensure improved learning environments for our students,” he said, emphasizing the ministry’s focus on creating conducive classrooms.
Addressing the issue of overage students, Dr. Jallah explained that 300 children have been transitioned from grades three and four to more appropriate levels. The ministry is also expanding its teaching workforce, with 458 Personnel Action Notices (PANs) for volunteer teachers forwarded to the Ministry of Finance for payroll placement, out of the 2,307 submitted.
Dr. Jallah framed the initiative as a multi-pronged strategy to tackle both enrollment gaps and educational quality. By combining fee waivers, provision of learning materials, school renovations, and teacher support, the ministry aims to ensure that children can learn effectively and remain in school.
She underscored the importance of the partnership with UNICEF, which will provide technical and material support to facilitate not only children’s return to school but also their continued engagement in learning.
The initiative reflects Liberia’s broader commitment to inclusive education and reducing the number of out-of-school children, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Lawmakers expressed optimism that the program will significantly enhance literacy rates and educational outcomes for Liberia’s youth.
As the Ministry of Education rolls out this ambitious program, stakeholders are hopeful that combined policy measures, international support, and community involvement will reverse years of educational setbacks and strengthen Liberia’s human capital.
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