By Grace Bryant Mollay
The Government of Liberia is intensifying efforts to strengthen the nation’s education system and safeguard its cultural heritage, according to Information Minister, Jerolinmek Matthew Piah.
During a regular press briefing at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs & Tourism (MICAT), Minister Piah highlighted that both education and culture remain central to President Joseph Boakai’s broader development strategy.
“Our commitment to education goes beyond building classrooms, it’s about restoring dignity to our learning spaces and honoring the legacy of institutions that have shaped countless Liberians,” said Minister Piah.
He announced that renovations are underway at several historic schools, particularly those with longstanding reputations in early childhood and secondary education.
The upgrades aim to provide safe, modern, and inspiring environments for students and teachers.
Beyond infrastructure, Minister Piah unveiled a series of cultural initiatives aimed at promoting national unity and raising cultural awareness.
These include festivals, artistic exhibitions, and community heritage programs designed to strengthen Liberia’s identity and preserve traditions for future generations.
“Culture is more than entertainment it’s a reflection of who we are. We are investing in festivals, storytelling, and exchange programs to connect our youth with their heritage and foster international cultural cooperation,” Piah stated.
Among recent efforts are youth exchange plans and collaborative heritage projects with partner countries.
These activities are expected to boost tourism, support the creative economy, and instill pride in Liberian customs and history.
Minister Piah reaffirmed the government’s belief that education and culture are essential and mutually reinforcing tools for national advancement.
“A country that educates its people and preserves its heritage secures a stronger future,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Liberian government is also renewing its focus on infrastructure development and energy reform as part of its national development blueprint.
Minister Piah outlined major initiatives aimed at improving road networks and ensuring a reliable power supply throughout the country.
He stressed the importance of these sectors to economic growth, investment, and the well-being of Liberians.
“New bridges are being built, roads are being paved, and key transportation corridors are being restored.
These aren’t just physical projects—they’re vital connections for communities, businesses, and agriculture,” said Minister Piah.
He also revealed that Liberia has signed a power purchase agreement with neighboring Guinea, a move seen as a significant milestone in regional energy cooperation.
The Ministry of Mines and Energy, he noted, is working to expand domestic energy capacity by modernizing existing infrastructure and shifting from emergency power solutions to more sustainable energy sources.
“A stable electricity supply is the backbone of a thriving economy.
When businesses have dependable power, they grow, create jobs, pay taxes, and uplift communities,” Piah said.
He further disclosed plans to generate between 25 to 50 megawatts of electricity through regional interconnections, focusing on quick-impact projects that benefit both urban and rural populations.
