MONROVIA, LIBERIA-Education Minister, Dr. Jarso Jallah, has described adult literacy as an important part of Liberia’s development and efforts to improve learning opportunities for citizens.

Speaking at the official launch of the National Accelerated Adult Literacy Program in Monrovia on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, Dr. Jallah said:” Education is a human right that should not depend on a person’s location or gender”.

The education minister said Liberia’s adult literacy rate stands at about fifty-eight percent. In comparison, rural literacy is estimated at only forty-four percent, highlighting the need for increased literacy support across the country.

She said the first phase of the program will focus on Grand Cape Mount, Bong, Grand Bassa, Gbarpolu, Lofa, and River Cess, identified as areas with significant literacy needs.

Speaking under the theme: “Literacy for All in the Interest of Liberia’s Growth and Prosperity,” Dr. Jallah called for stronger coordination among government and partners to ensure adult learners receive the support needed to improve their literacy skills.

The President of the Liberia Marketing Association, Lusu Crawford, has called for increased support to expand adult literacy opportunities across Liberia.

Madam Crawford said adequate support could help reach more than thirty thousand targeted adult learners.

She said developing Liberians’ minds remains important to national development, urging continued government and partner support for adult literacy.

The LMA president recalled that an earlier literacy program helped market women improve their reading and writing skills and independently conduct financial transactions.

She said market women with different educational backgrounds could benefit from the program and help share their knowledge with others.