Liberia's Education Crisis: School Fees Hinder Access for Children
Liberia: School Fees Block Children’s Access to Education
Image: Human Rights Watch
In Liberia, mandatory school fees significantly impede children's access to education, violating their rights despite legal guarantees for free education. A report by Human Rights Watch reveals that many children delay enrollment or drop out due to financial burdens, with nearly one-third of school-age children never attending school. Immediate action is needed to eliminate these fees and improve educational access.
- 01Human Rights Watch's report details that 43% of children in early childhood education are over the recommended age, indicating delayed school entry.
- 02Only 38% of children complete grade 6 and just 17% complete grade 9 in Liberia, highlighting severe educational exclusion.
- 03Parents often resort to extreme measures, including debt and sacrificing basic needs, to pay for their children's education.
- 04The Liberian government’s education budget is only 11% of national spending, far below the 4% average for Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) members.
- 05The Excellence in Learning in Liberia (EXCEL) project aims to reduce financial barriers with US$18.5 million allocated for school grants.
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A recent report by Human Rights Watch highlights the critical issue of school fees in Liberia, which are a significant barrier to education for many children. Despite the legal framework guaranteeing free education for grades 1 to 9, mandatory fees force families into difficult financial situations, leading to delayed enrollments, absenteeism, and high dropout rates. The report indicates that approximately one-third of children aged 3 to 17 have never attended school, and only 38% complete grade 6 while a mere 17% finish grade 9. Interviews with parents and children reveal that many families are making extreme sacrifices to afford school fees. The financial burden is exacerbated by a low public investment in education, with the 2026 budget only accounting for 11% of national spending. The report calls for immediate government action to eliminate registration fees and expand funding for education, particularly through initiatives like the US$88.7 million EXCEL project, which aims to improve access and quality in schools. By removing financial barriers, Liberia could enhance educational opportunities for millions of children, contributing to poverty reduction and societal development.
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Eliminating school fees and improving educational access would significantly benefit children and families, enhancing future opportunities and reducing poverty.
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