By Peter Kollie
Lofa County, Zorzor-In a major step toward strengthening early childhood learning across Liberia, the Ministry of Education has launched a 40-day Early Childhood Education (ECE) in-service teacher training program at the Zorzor Rural Teacher Training Institute (ZRTTI) in Lofa County.
The training, which commenced on July 28, 2025, brings together 63 volunteer in-service teachers from Bong, Lofa, and Nimba counties, The intensive training session runs from Monday to Saturday. Upon completion, participants will receive a “C” certificate in Early Childhood Education, equipping them with essential skills to foster early learning.
Assistant Minister for Teacher Education, Hon. Clifford Konnah Jr., said the initiative is part of a broader national effort that was officially launched on July 29 at the Kakata Rural Teacher Training Institute. The program is being delivered simultaneously through three rural teacher training institutes—Zorzor, Kakata, and Webbo—across all 16 education counties.
Currently, over 208 educators are enrolled, including 182 women and 26 men—highlighting the Ministry’s commitment to gender inclusion in education.
The training is funded under the World Bank’s US$88.7 million Early Childhood Development Project, which also includes the construction of 100 modern ECD centers and the deployment of certified teachers across the country’s early learning classrooms.
“This is not just a training program—it is a national mission to shape the future of Liberia through knowledge, care, and leadership,” Mr. Konnah emphasized during the national launch.
The Ministry of Education, in a recent press release, reaffirmed its stance that early childhood education is a national priority, forming the bedrock of Liberia’s entire education system.
Participants have described the training as transformative and timely, noting that it provides them with the tools to better nurture and educate Liberia’s youngest learners.
