The struggle for inclusive education in Liberia, particularly for deaf children, remains a critical challenge, demanding urgent attention from government, parents, and civil society. Advocates like Octavius Vorkpor, Director of the Liberia Deaf Association, and Anthony Z. Kollie, Disability Liaison Officer for Senator Prince Kermue Moye Sr., are tirelessly championing the rights of deaf children, highlighting the stark disparity in educational opportunities between Montserrado County and the rest of Liberia. They emphasize that deafness is not a barrier to learning and that deaf children possess the same potential as their hearing peers, deserving equal access to education and the chance to thrive. The current situation paints a grim picture of neglect and exclusion, where hundreds of deaf children in 14 counties outside Montserrado are denied formal education due to the absence of dedicated schools.
The dire consequences of this educational gap are evident in the dwindling student numbers at the Gbarnga Central School of the Deaf, where only 14 out of 21 students completed the 2024/2025 academic year. Factors such as lack of parental support, fueled by stigma and financial constraints, contribute significantly to this attrition. Vorkpor passionately denounces the societal misconception that deaf children are incapable of learning, urging a shift in perspective and the eradication of derogatory labels like “deaf and dumb.” He stresses the urgent need for parental involvement and a societal embrace of deaf children as capable individuals with the potential to make meaningful contributions.
Vorkpor’s call to action resonates with a plea for strategic government intervention, including the establishment of deaf schools in every county, training of sign language teachers, and dedicated budget allocation for inclusive education. He underscores that investing in deaf education is an investment in Liberia’s future, as these children can become valuable members of society in diverse fields if given the opportunity. His advocacy extends to a call for philanthropic support and partnerships with grassroots organizations striving to promote inclusive education for all children with disabilities.
Kollie echoes Vorkpor’s sentiments, pledging his office’s commitment to lobbying for expanded services for the deaf community in Bong County and beyond. He views education as a powerful tool of empowerment, enabling deaf individuals to overcome marginalization and lead dignified lives. Kollie’s appeal to parents is poignant, urging them to embrace their children’s disabilities and recognize education as the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and discrimination. He envisions a national dialogue on inclusive education that prioritizes the integration of people with disabilities as active and valued members of society.
The overarching message from both advocates is the crucial need for a societal transformation in attitudes and perceptions regarding deafness. Eradicating stigmatizing language and harmful stereotypes is paramount to fostering a truly inclusive environment. The Gbarnga Central School of the Deaf, while a symbol of hope, represents a small step in a long journey. Its continued success and the realization of inclusive education nationwide require collaborative efforts from communities, government bodies, and international partners.
The graduation ceremony at the Gbarnga Central School of the Deaf serves as both a celebration of achievement and a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead. As Liberia embarks on educational reforms and decentralization, the voices of advocates like Vorkpor and Kollie resonate with increasing urgency. Their impassioned pleas highlight the imperative of listening not just with ears but with hearts and through concrete policy action, ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a brighter future for Liberia. Their central message underscores the fundamental right of all children to education and the potential they hold to enrich society when given the chance to flourish.
