On November 25, 2024, Superintendent James A.S. Momoh articulated a robust vision for educational reform in the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS). His announcement revealed exciting plans for the establishment of a new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) school in Liberia. This initiative is designed to boost the quality of education and equip students with critical skills needed in these essential fields. By aligning the STEM curriculum with national educational standards sanctioned by the Ministry of Education, the project aims to lay a solid foundation for students, ultimately enhancing their capabilities to contribute to Liberia’s growth and development in key areas such as science and technology.
In his discussions with reporters, Superintendent Momoh emphasized that ongoing collaboration is pivotal, mentioning partnerships with influential figures such as Mrs. Marie Jilo Barnett, the Ambassador of Sierra Leone to Liberia. This collaboration not only aims to facilitate the establishment of the STEM school but also signifies a broader commitment to elevating educational quality in the Monrovia school system. In tandem with this initiative, Momoh introduced a variety of educational reforms, including plans to bolster teacher training and expand vocational education programs, which reflect a holistic approach to raising the standard of education across MCSS.
A significant step towards improving educational resources was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between MCSS and the Liberia Public School Project. This agreement is aimed at supplying essential school materials needed for effective teaching and learning within the MCSS. In addition, Superintendent Momoh disclosed partnerships with USAID and the African Methodist Episcopal University (AMEU) to provide further training for teachers specializing in Early Childhood Development (ECD) and elementary education. Through these initiatives, the district aims to ensure that all educators receive adequate qualifications, enhancing their ability to contribute positively to student learning outcomes.
Superintendent Momoh also highlighted a commitment to professional development for teachers, sharing that two MCSS staff members were recently sent to South Korea to participate in the International Youth Fellowship Education Conference. This initiative reflects his vision of exposing educators to global best practices in teaching methodologies. Furthermore, ongoing discussions with local government officials, including Senator Craton Duncan and Representative P. Mark Juray, are underway to galvanize support for MCSS’ Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs. Collectively, these efforts are geared towards establishing a robust educational framework that prepares students for the workforce and community integration.
In pursuit of enhancing educational infrastructure, Superintendent Momoh announced plans to renovate the Rebecca J.N. Wilson Elementary School, transforming it into a high school. This project is made possible through funding allocated from the district’s budget, facilitated by Representative Yekeh Kolubah. Additionally, a new training department has been formed within MCSS to focus on continuous professional development for teachers, ensuring they remain engaged in improving classroom practices. Momoh also indicated aspirations for an agricultural program, noting that a dedicated department is being established alongside the introduction of agriculture and bookkeeping courses in the curriculum.
Finally, the Superintendent’s overarching goal is to foster an environment conducive to educational excellence, both in teaching and administration. This includes a collaboration with GLOBAL ARCUS to provide scholarships for teachers and an MOU with the Sierra Leonean government aimed at enhancing MCSS’s capacity in various educational sectors. These initiatives underscore a clear commitment to the continuous improvement of educational standards within MCSS, emphasizing teacher development, curriculum diversification, and infrastructure enhancement to diversify and enrich the educational experience for students in Monrovia.
