On October 15, 2024, UNICEF Liberia made a significant contribution to the Ministry of Education by donating 5,000 back-to-school bags aimed at alleviating the financial burden on struggling families and enhancing student enrollment as part of the government’s “Back to My Classroom” initiative. The “Back to My Classroom” campaign addresses the various barriers hindering school attendance in Liberia, which include poverty, cultural obstacles, and a scarcity of educational resources. During the donation event, held at the Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, UNICEF Country Representative Andy Brooks emphasized the importance of supporting the government’s efforts to improve school attendance and facilitate access to education for all children.
Mr. Brooks highlighted UNICEF’s role in providing technical support, essential educational materials, and strategies necessary for reaching out-of-school children, enhancing school infrastructure, and improving teacher training. He noted that the donation is part of a commitment to ensuring quality education and remarked on the broader objectives of the “Back to My Classroom” campaign while underscoring the provision of school supplies aimed at easing financial constraints on families. Essential items donated, including backpacks and learning materials, are intended to help newly enrolled children thrive academically while encouraging families to enroll their children in school.
UNICEF’s contribution complements the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive educational environment, reflecting a commitment to equitable education across Liberia. Mr. Brooks expressed concern regarding the alarming statistic that over 50% of Liberian children are currently out of school due to various factors. He asserted the necessity of an immediate response to this situation, proposing a structured, step-by-step approach to tackle school enrollment in multiple counties. His vision includes targeting initially seven counties, enrolling 15,000 children, and eventually working towards 100% enrollment over the next few years.
In response, Deputy Education Minister for Administration Nyekeh Y. Forkpa received the donation on behalf of the government and commended UNICEF for its ongoing support. He reiterated that this donation is not an isolated instance but part of a continuing partnership aimed at bringing children back to the classroom. Minister Forkpa emphasized that the “Back to My Classroom” initiative is a government-led project bolstered significantly by the contributions and support from UNICEF, reaffirming the shared goal of providing every child in Liberia the chance to realize their full potential through education.
The collaborative efforts between UNICEF and the Liberian government highlight a proactive approach to overcoming barriers to education. With UNICEF’s expertise and resources, the campaign aims to tackle the multifaceted issues of school attendance, ensuring that all children have the necessary tools, both materially and academically, to succeed in their educational pursuits. The successful implementation of the “Back to My Classroom” campaign represents a crucial step towards building a more educated and empowered future generation in Liberia.
As the initiative progresses, the commitment of both UNICEF and the Liberian government will be essential in achieving their shared educational goals. With a clear plan and cooperative spirit, there is hope for a future in which education is accessible to every child in Liberia, thus creating a more equitable and bright landscape for the nation’s youth and its overall development.
