During the recent 25th graduation ceremony of the Trumpet of Faith Baptist School in Bassa Town, Monrovia, educator and researcher Fayiah S. Tamba addressed the pressing issues facing Liberia’s educational system. He emphasized that the current structure is failing to produce quality graduates, thereby necessitating urgent and comprehensive reforms, particularly in high school education. Tamba criticized the government’s previous efforts, suggesting that they have not sufficiently tackled the educational shortcomings that hinder student performance. He urged the Ministry of Education to take decisive action to reform curricula and teaching methodologies, stating that such efforts could significantly enhance the quality of education and the overall efficacy of the educational system.
In his speech, Tamba acknowledged the complexities and complacency that prevent graduates from pursuing higher education after completing high school. He shared insights from his role as a lecturer at the United Methodist University, stressing the importance of resilience and commitment to educational advancement. Tamba encouraged graduates to reframe their perspectives regarding their high school diplomas. Instead of viewing graduation as an endpoint, he reminded them that it marks the commencement of their journeys into higher learning and professional development, quoting Orrin Hatch to reinforce this message. This shift in mindset would encourage graduates to consider their diplomas as stepping stones towards further education, rather than final accomplishments.
Nevertheless, Tamba raised concerns regarding the disconnect between formal schooling and the actual skills required in the workforce. He noted that many high school graduates emerge ill-prepared for employment, lacking essential skills needed in Liberia’s evolving economic landscape. This gap highlights the deficiencies in the current curriculum that fails to bridge educational achievements with real-world application. Tamba’s diagnosis emphasizes the need for systemic changes to align educational outcomes with the practical requirements of the job market, thereby equipping graduates with the competencies needed to thrive in today’s economy.
To combat these challenges, Tamba proposed three key recommendations aimed at fostering a more ambitious and opportunistic mindset among graduates. He advocated that they strive to be visionary, seizing opportunities that come their way, while also aspiring to be role models within their communities. He argued that by adopting these principles, graduates could counteract the complacency that often pervades the transition from high school to further education or employment. Tamba believes that inspiration and action can come from within the graduates themselves, enabling them to carve out their paths forward in a challenging environment.
Moreover, Tamba’s call to action extended beyond the graduates themselves. He emphasized the shared responsibilities of school administrators, parents, and the broader community in nurturing and supporting young people as they prepare for the next stages of their lives. In particular, he championed the establishment of effective career development programs in high schools for students in Grades 10-12. Such programs would equip students with guidance and practical skills necessary for navigating their futures, thus fostering a sense of stability and purpose in their career pursuits. This holistic approach involves family and community support systems that underscore the importance of encouragement and mentorship throughout the educational journey.
In conclusion, Mr. Tamba’s remarks serve as a clarion call for educational reform in Liberia, highlighting the critical need for initiatives that promote quality and relevance in education. By urging graduates to set ambitious goals and become beacons of inspiration, he not only addresses the immediate challenges facing the education sector but also envisions a future where graduates can contribute meaningfully to society. His emphasis on resilience, community involvement, and the integration of career development programs presents a roadmap for fostering a more robust educational framework capable of preparing Liberia’s youth for the challenges of the modern world. This dialogue on educational reform underscores a shared commitment to building a brighter future for Liberia through empowered and educated individuals.
