MOE Liberia Swaps Out Teachers, but Systemic Failures Remain
- Michael T
- Sep 19
- 1 min read
MONROVIA, Sept 19 – Liberia’s government has dismissed 1,000 “nonperforming” teachers from the national payroll, Acting Education Minister Nyekeh Y. Forkpa announced Thursday, but critics say the move spotlights chronic dysfunction in the country’s education system rather than solving its deep-rooted problems.
Forkpa told a press briefing that the Ministry would replace the ousted staff with “qualified volunteers” after a review found widespread absenteeism and unaccounted salaries. Out of 2,000 volunteer teachers identified, 417 are set to start receiving government pay in September, with the rest to follow by October. Forkpa also claimed more than 9,000 teachers nationwide recently received salary increases—a reform he hopes will boost morale and quality.
Reform advocates, however, question how a system so vulnerable to payroll abuse and absenteeism can ensure the new hires are truly qualified or provide long-term improvement. Previous government efforts have struggled to stem inefficiency, corruption, and classroom neglect—issues that continue to hamper learning outcomes across Liberia.
Forkpa vowed further accountability and said delinquent teachers would no longer be tolerated, but student advocacy groups are pressing for transparent monitoring and independent verification of teacher recruitment and performance.
___________________________________
Get Involved
Do you have additional facts to add to this insight or an opinion you would like to express?
Email Us
Comments