MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The day began with an inspiring outdoor celebration held at the Barclay Training Center (BTC) on Lynch Street, where hundreds of students from across Montserrado County assembled in ceremonial attire to participate in a well-coordinated march and national salute.

Their display of discipline, organization, and national pride marked a fitting tribute to the flag and to the ideals it represents.

Following the outdoor program, the celebration transitioned indoors to the historic Centennial Pavilion on Ashmun Street.

In attendance were government officials, educators, development partners, students, and members of civil society.

Representing President Joseph Boakai was the Minister of Justice, Cllr. Oswald Tweh, who delivered special remarks on behalf of the President.

In his statement, Cllr. Tweh emphasized the importance of national unity, civic responsibility, and democratic values, and called upon Liberians to move beyond symbolic gestures and demonstrate their patriotism through actions that promote accountability, peace, and good governance.

The event also recognized and honored schools that exhibited exceptional performance during the parade and formal program.

The Ministry of Education presented awards in the categories of best salute, best dressed, and most disciplined schools.

St. Teresa’s Convent Catholic High School, located on Randall Street, Monrovia, emerged as the 1st winner for ‘Best Salute’. William V.S. Tubman High School, on 12th Street, Sinkor, claimed the 2nd Place Award, while Emily Foundation Academy, Brewerville, Montserrado County, earned 3rd Place.

Monrovia College, situated on Clay Street, was honored as the Best Dressed School, and Ann Sandell Independent High School, located along Police Academy Road in Paynesville City, received the award for ‘Most Disciplined School’. These institutions were commended for their excellence in presentation, order, and patriotism.

Delivering the keynote address was Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu, a respected legal scholar, educator, and advocate for democratic governance.

He called on Liberians to recommit to the principles of national unity, patriotism, civic responsibility, love for justice, and total respect for all Liberians regardless of status or background. Dr. Barbu challenged public officials and citizens alike to live with transparency and moral integrity.

He reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to justice and accountability, particularly through the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court—a critical step toward addressing historic injustices and fostering national reconciliation and healing.

In his address, Acting Minister of Education, Atty. Nyekeh Forkpa reiterated the Ministry’s steadfast commitment to building a robust, inclusive, and equitable education system that serves the needs of all Liberian learners. He stressed the importance of prioritizing girls, marginalized communities, and the development of an inclusive educational framework that embraces every Liberian without prejudice.

The Acting Minister outlined key priorities, including equipping students with market-relevant, 21st-century skills; licensing and professionalizing the teaching workforce; reintroducing civic education to instill national values; and placing trained guidance counselors in every school to support students’ academic and personal development.

Atty. Forkpa extended profound appreciation to Hon. Sona Sesay, Assistant Minister for Student Personnel Services, for her exemplary leadership and tireless dedication to the successful planning and execution of this year’s Flag Day celebrations.

He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of Liberia’s international development partners, expressing gratitude for their continued support of the Education Sector Plan and encouraging greater collaboration to improve student enrollment, retention, and learning outcomes across the country.

In a heartfelt closing message directed at the students in attendance, Atty. Forkpa offered words of encouragement and empowerment. “We are here for you, to serve you in the best way possible”.

“Do not be afraid to hold us accountable for our actions. You are the hope of this nation, and we rise together when you are empowered with knowledge, values, and courage.”

Liberia’s Deputy Education Minister for Administration, Nyekeh Forkpa, has described this year’s Flag Day celebration as “more than a flag raising ceremony, but a moment of National reflection, Unity, and Recommitment to the ideal that defined Liberia’s sense of birth.

Speaking on behalf of Education Minister, Dr. Jarso Jallah, at the 178th National Flag Day ceremony held on Monday, August 25, 2025, in Monrovia, the Deputy Education Minister reminded Liberians that the Lonestar flag represents, liberty, resilience, and sacrifice, as a powerful reminder of who we are, where we come from, and where we are going together.

Deputy Minister Forkpa noted that as public servants, their actions should reflect the trust and confidence the citizens have placed in them, adding that they have been called to serve selflessly and not to be served, to build a better future for every Liberian.

He encouraged the students to remain disciplined, purposeful and make the sacrifices required as a means of boosting the educational system.

The Deputy Minister further said,” The idea and creativity of students are vital to transforming the educational system”.

This year’s theme:” The flag raise, and Value We Uphold”, which brought together students, educators, and government officials from across the country to grace the occasion.

As the red, white, and blue banner waved proudly over the nation’s capital, the 178th Flag Day celebration concluded not only as a ceremonial tribute to Liberia’s most cherished symbol, but as a renewed national call to action—anchored in purpose, integrity, and shared responsibility.

The Ministry of Education reaffirmed its mission to educate, to empower, and to uphold the ideals that the Liberian flag so boldly represents.