By: Figo Mansaray | Contributing Writer
Monrovia, Liberia |May 17, 2026| Liberian educator and journalist Samuel Y. Valentine has identified several root causes behind Liberia’s ongoing education crisis following concerns raised during the recent AFL recruitment exercise.
In his statement titled, “The AFL Recruitment Mirror: Part II — Identifying the Root Causes of Liberia’s Educational Crisis,” Valentine said the recruitment process exposed serious weaknesses in reading and writing skills among many young Liberians, including high school graduates.
According to him, the problem did not begin recently and cannot be blamed on one institution alone, but is the result of years of neglect within the country’s education system.
Valentine pointed to chronic underfunding as one of the major challenges affecting schools across Liberia.
He explained that many schools operate without enough learning materials, while overcrowded classrooms and limited teacher training continue to affect the quality of instruction.
He also highlighted the issue of unqualified and demotivated teachers, noting that low salaries and delayed payments make it difficult for educators to provide quality instruction in classrooms.
“The school system is only as strong as its teachers,” Valentine stated, adding that students often move through school without mastering important reading and writing skills.
The educator further criticized weak curriculum implementation and poor academic standards in both public and private schools.
He said inconsistent teaching methods, limited supervision, and automatic promotion practices have weakened confidence in the country’s education system.
Valentine also raised concern about poor school infrastructure, including overcrowded classrooms, lack of electricity, absence of libraries, and limited science laboratories, which continue to undermine learning opportunities for students.
According to him, Liberia has also developed what he described as “a dangerous culture that values the appearance of education over the substance of education,” where certificates are often prioritized over real competence and learning.
Despite the challenges, Valentine believes Liberia still has the opportunity to reform its education system.
He said the next part of his series will focus on practical solutions aimed at improving standards, empowering teachers, and strengthening learning outcomes across the country.
