Africa-Press – Liberia. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Richard Nagbe Koon, has warned that Liberia’s future risks being destroyed if primary school teachers continue demanding money from parents to promote students from one grade to another.
Speaking at the official launch of the Rose International Academy in Johnsonville over the weekend, Speaker Koon condemned the practice of soliciting money from parents due to delays in salary payments by school owners or principals. He said such actions have the potential to “cripple” the academic development of Liberian students.
“Once you build the foundation of these children, they will become greater leaders. Even when you are building a house — when the foundation is well built, the house will stand. But when the foundation is not built and the teachers start to take money from parents only to pass the children, they are definitely crippling the future of this country. The foundation of our children is built in nursery schools,” he said.
Speaker Koon emphasized that primary education is the cornerstone of national development and urged teachers to uphold professional ethics and prioritize quality education, particularly at the foundational level.
He called on teachers to remain committed to their duties and avoid unjustifiably promoting students. He added that Liberia’s future progress depends on a solid educational foundation for the youth.
The Speaker, who also lectures at the University of Liberia, observed that many students at junior and senior high levels struggle academically due to a weak foundation in their early education.
“Many of these students will experience tough times in their academic sojourn in the future,” he warned.
Speaker Koon urged the proprietress of Rose International Academy, Hawa Kun, and the teaching staff to focus on delivering quality education and aim to be “second to none” in Liberia. He praised the establishment of the school, stating it was a positive step toward shaping young minds and securing the nation’s future.
“Pay attention to our children; if your salaries are delayed or there is any other thing, confront the administration and do not go about asking parents for money. It cripples the foundation of our children,” he cautioned.
He also recommended implementing a robust monitoring system to assess student performance and conduct. During the event, Speaker Koon pledged his support to the academy and awarded scholarships to several students.
He encouraged Liberians to elect capable and principled individuals to the National Legislature, rather than those who offer handouts during election campaigns.
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