By: Jamesetta D Williams
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has reaffirmed Liberia’s dedication to quality education and equitable learning opportunities, urging the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to adopt more inclusive policies. Speaking at the 73rd Annual WAEC Council Meeting at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, the Liberian leader emphasized the need for standardized assessments that cater to all students, including those with disabilities.
Addressing a distinguished audience of education ministers, policymakers, and experts from across West Africa, President Boakai praised WAEC for its role in maintaining fairness, transparency, and accountability in student evaluations. He stressed that education is not only a means to acquiring knowledge but also a vital tool for empowerment, economic growth, and social progress.
“As we gather here in Monrovia, we are reminded of the critical role that education plays in shaping the future of our nations,” President Boakai said. “Education is not only a pathway to knowledge but also an essential instrument of empowerment, economic growth, and social development.”
One of the key messages of President Boakai’s address was the need for WAEC to implement inclusive examination policies. He urged the Council to introduce accommodations such as extra time, alternative testing formats, and accessible exam centers for students with disabilities. According to him, these measures would ensure that every student has a fair opportunity to showcase their abilities.
“An inclusive education system sends a powerful message: that we value diversity and are committed to ensuring that every citizen can contribute to our nation’s development,” he asserted. “Let us work together to make this vision a reality.”
The Liberian leader also highlighted the importance of investing in teacher training and integrating technology into learning. He noted that as the world becomes increasingly digital, students must be equipped with the necessary skills to compete in a globalized economy.
President Boakai commended educators, school administrators, and policymakers for their dedication to improving education in Liberia and beyond. He called for regional collaboration among West African nations to address challenges in educational assessments and devise new strategies for the future.
The 73rd WAEC Annual Council Meeting, which brought together key stakeholders from across the region, served as a platform to review progress in standardized testing and explore ways to enhance the quality of education.
Concluding his speech, President Boakai delivered a rallying call for collective action: “Together, we can create a more just society where every voice is heard, every dream is nurtured, and every child has the opportunity to succeed.”
With his address, President Boakai reinforced Liberia’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable education system, setting the tone for future educational reforms across West Africa.
