By Christian Appleton
Maryland County, Liberia – A group of 150 public school teachers in Maryland County took to the streets on Monday, January 20, 2025, to protest the non-payment of their salaries by the Liberian government.
The teachers, who have not been paid since October 2024, have decided to halt their regular teaching duties in a powerful display of frustration and to demand the payment of their outstanding wages.
The teachers have made it clear that they will not resume their teaching responsibilities until their salaries, covering the period from October 2024 to January 2025, are paid. Their protest marks a significant stand against what they describe as the government’s failure to fulfill its financial obligations to educators.
The demonstrators voiced their discontent with the Ministry of Education, particularly calling attention to the issue of underpaid teachers, even those who are highly qualified. “This is a clear sign of disrespect toward educators,” one protester said. “Our work is essential to the future of this country, yet we are being neglected.” This sentiment reflects broader concerns about the challenges and disparities faced by teachers within Liberia’s education system.
In an unusual turn of events, parents in the community have also expressed their support for the teachers, joining the protest to advocate for the swift resolution of the issue. “The disruption in the normal operations of schools in Maryland County underscores the urgency of addressing the financial grievances of teachers,” said Madam Mary Williams, a local parent. “We need the government, particularly the Ministry of Education, to take immediate action to ensure that our teachers are paid what they are owed.”
As the protest continues, the teachers have made it clear they will not resume regular school activities until they receive the wages they are owed. The situation raises serious concerns about the stability of the education sector in Liberia, with many fearing that the disruption could have long-term consequences for the academic year.
The Liberia government and the Ministry of Education have yet to respond publicly to the teachers’ demands.
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