Education Minister Calls for Overhaul of Adult Literacy in Liberia

By Lewis S. Teh

MONROVIA, June 17, 2026 – Education Minister Dr. Jarso Jallah on Tuesday called for a comprehensive overhaul of Liberia’s adult literacy sector, urging the establishment of a unified national system that provides accredited qualifications and tangible opportunities for adult learners.

Jallah made the remarks at the opening of the Adult Literacy Curriculum Review and Alignment Session in Monrovia. She emphasized the need to provide adult learners with the same structured pathways and recognition as those in formal education.

“Beyond scattered initiatives”

“Liberia must move beyond scattered initiatives and build a coherent national system capable of delivering recognized qualifications and real opportunities for learners across the country,” Jallah told participants.

Jallah acknowledged the resilience of adult literacy programs, crediting their survival to dedicated organizations, facilitators, and partners who continued their work despite numerous challenges.

She also thanked Mission Alliance for its longstanding support of adult education in Liberia.

Building a robust national framework:

Jallah called on participants to focus on establishing a national framework based on common standards and a curriculum tailored to the needs of adult learners.

“With aligned standards and a responsive curriculum, literacy can lead to qualifications that open doors to employment, entrepreneurship, and further education,” she said.

The Adult Literacy Curriculum Review and Alignment Session convened educators, partners, and stakeholders to harmonize content, assessment, and certification, aiming to ensure consistent, high-quality instruction for adult learners nationwide.

The Ministry of Education said strengthening the framework would expand access, improve learning outcomes, and ensure adult literacy programs contribute to national development and workforce goals.