Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-02-21 00:26:00
The House of Representatives has extended an invitation to the Ministry of Education (MoE) to appear before the full plenary next Thursday. This is in order for the MoE officials to provide updates on the Government of Liberia’s compulsory primary education as well as special inclusive education for the deaf and visually impaired.
The decision to summon the Ministry of Education officials was made on Tuesday, 20 February 2024, following a communication from Montserrado County Electora District #4 Representative, Atty. Michael M. Thomas. Rep. Thomas expressed concerns about the prolonged ineffectiveness of the Free and Compulsory Primary Education and the Special Education Policy implemented by the Government of Liberia in the education sector.
He pointed out that the government’s policy on Free and Compulsory Education and Special Education was initially introduced in 2001 and reaffirmed in 2011. This was part of the Educational Reform Act that was passed by the Liberian Legislature in 2011 to enhance the quality of education in the country, increase school enrollment, reform the governance structure of the education system, and fulfill the constitutional provision to develop the minds of Liberian children. It also aimed to support the development of people living with disabilities through the Special Inclusive Education Division of the Ministry of Education.
However, Rep. Thomas highlighted that the deaf and visually impaired individuals have been neglected and have resorted to begging on the streets. He emphasized that the policies and programs outlined by the Ministry of Education have posed significant challenges to the educational sector, with minimal to no improvement, according to state actors.
Rep. Thomas underscored that the availability of education to every Liberian child and people living with disabilities is crucial in shaping the minds of future leaders and reducing the dangers posed by illiteracy to the basic equity in the social, moral, and political spheres of the country.
The decision to summon the Ministry of Education officials reflects the House of Representatives’ commitment to address the concerns raised by Rep. Thomas and seek accountability and progress with regards to the implementation of policies related to compulsory primary education and special education for the deaf and visually impaired.
The House of Representatives aims to hold the Ministry of Education accountable for upholding its responsibilities in ensuring the effective implementation of these educational policies to benefit all Liberian children and individuals living with disabilities.
In conclusion, the House of Representatives’ decision to invite the Ministry of Education to provide updates on compulsory primary education and special inclusive education for the deaf and visually impaired demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges in the education sector and ensuring that all children, regardless of their abilities, have access to quality education.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
