The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) of Liberia has formalized a partnership with the Development Education Network-Liberia (DEN-L) to establish a Development Studies Center (DSC), incorporating a Local Government School (LGS), a significant step towards enhancing local governance and capacity building in the country. This collaboration, announced in March 2025, marks a milestone in DEN-L’s two-decade-long pursuit of establishing such an institution and signifies the MIA’s commitment to prioritizing training for local officials as it transitions into the Ministry of Local Government. The joint initiative aims to address critical needs within the Liberian governance landscape, focusing on equipping local leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage resources and implement development programs.
The planned DSC and LGS, scheduled to launch in September 2025 at DEN-L’s Gbarnga compound in Bong County, represent a substantial investment in Liberia’s future. The institution will offer a range of academic programs, including degrees, diplomas, and certificates, covering diverse fields crucial for local development. These include Local Government, Conflict Resolution, Information Technology, Agriculture, and Community Development. This multidisciplinary approach reflects a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected challenges and opportunities facing local communities in Liberia, aiming to empower leaders with the expertise to navigate these complexities effectively.
The partnership between the MIA and DEN-L is built on a shared vision of strengthened local governance. DEN-L’s Executive Director, Mr. Peter Dolo, expressed gratitude for the MIA’s collaboration, highlighting its significance as a “bold step” towards improving resource management and local government programs. This collaboration leverages the respective strengths of both organizations: DEN-L’s extensive experience in development education and the MIA’s governmental authority and reach. This synergistic approach promises a more impactful and sustainable initiative, ensuring that the training provided aligns with national priorities and contributes directly to improving local governance structures.
The MIA’s commitment to this initiative is underscored by Deputy Minister for Research and Development Planning, Edward K. Mulbah, who affirmed the Ministry’s dedication to supporting the school’s success. Recognizing the critical role of trained personnel in the effective functioning of local government, the MIA has identified capacity building as a top priority, especially as it undergoes its transformation into the Ministry of Local Government. The establishment of the DSC and LGS provides a structured and sustainable platform for achieving this objective, ensuring a consistent pipeline of skilled individuals ready to contribute to local development.
The project has garnered significant support from local authorities in Bong County, signifying a broad-based recognition of its potential impact. Bong County Administrative Officer, Sam B. Elliott, speaking on behalf of Superintendent Madam Loleyah Hawah Norris, praised the initiative and pledged the county’s full support. This local endorsement is crucial for the project’s successful implementation and long-term sustainability. It ensures local ownership and buy-in, creating a conducive environment for the institution to thrive and contribute effectively to the development of Bong County and beyond.
The establishment of the Local Government School is poised to be a transformative initiative for Liberia, addressing a critical gap in capacity building for local governance. By equipping local leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge across diverse disciplines, the institution aims to enhance the effectiveness of local government operations throughout the country. This, in turn, is expected to contribute to improved resource management, more effective development programs, and ultimately, a more prosperous and equitable future for all Liberians. The collaborative nature of the project, involving the government, civil society, and local communities, further strengthens its potential for long-term impact and sustainability, solidifying its position as a crucial investment in Liberia’s future.
