The Ministry of Education and the Civil Service Agency have officially launched the One Child, One Chair Initiative, marking a practical step toward improving learning conditions in Liberia’s public schools. The launch event featured the presentation of the first batch of 525 locally manufactured school chairs to His Excellency President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. This delivery signals early progress in addressing a long-standing challenge that affects student comfort, focus, and classroom participation.
Speaking during the presentation, the Director-General of the Civil Service Agency, Dr. Josiah F. Joekai, Jr., explained that the production of the chairs was financed through revenues generated from the enforcement of the national assets declaration mandate. This approach links public accountability with tangible benefits for citizens, especially children in public schools. The initiative also supports local production, ensuring public funds circulate within the national economy.
Dr. Joekai highlighted the collaboration with the Monrovia Vocational Training Center as a central part of the project. Through this partnership, trainees gained hands-on experience in furniture production while earning decent income. This component supports skills development and job creation while meeting an urgent educational need. The initiative therefore serves both the education sector and the broader workforce development agenda.
Minister of Education Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah emphasized that the success of the One Child, One Chair Initiative depends on proper distribution and long-term use. She confirmed that the Ministry has put transparent tracking and maintenance systems in place to guide the delivery of chairs to public schools across the country. These systems aim to promote fairness, prevent misuse, and ensure the chairs remain in classrooms where they are most needed.
The Minister noted that inadequate seating remains a major barrier to effective learning, particularly in overcrowded classrooms. By addressing this issue directly, the initiative supports improved concentration, better posture, and a more respectful learning environment for students. School administrators will also receive guidance on chair maintenance to extend their lifespan and protect public investment.
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. welcomed the initiative and praised the institutions involved for turning policy commitments into visible action. He reaffirmed the government’s focus on creating safe and supportive learning environments for all children. The President stressed that preventable challenges, such as the lack of basic classroom furniture, should no longer stand in the way of student achievement and national development.
The One Child, One Chair Initiative represents early but meaningful progress toward a broader national goal. The long-term vision focuses on ensuring every child in Liberia learns in dignity, comfort, and safety. As production and distribution continue, the initiative is expected to reach more schools and communities, strengthening confidence in public education reforms.
For updates and official information, follow the Ministry of Education through the following channels.
Website
Facebook: Ministry of Education – Liberia
X: @MoE_Liberia
LinkedIn: Ministry of Education – Liberia
Hotline: 1416
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