As MCSS Receives 22,500 Armchairs, Boakai’s One Child, One Chair Policy Takes Effect
PHOTO: Public school students in desperate need of armchairs
By Alfred Kollie, alfredkolliejr92@gmail.com
Monrovia – There have been series of reports that many students in public schools have been forced to sit on the floor due to the shortage of chairs both in rural and urban areas, with chairs shortage even being reported at the state-owned University of Liberian here in the capital.
For students of the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS), that situation is now being brought under control, with the provision of 22,500 corrugated armchairs, something MCSS authorities say is a significant move to enhance the educational environment for students, President Joseph N. Boakai Sr. who is said to have made this announcement as part of his One Child, One Chair Policy.
This decision comes in response to a request from Superintendent, James A.S. Momoh, in order to address the critical shortage of seating capacity for students.
Superintendent Momoh initially approached President Boakai in a letter dated June 27, 2024, highlighting the challenges faced by the MCSS regarding local chair production.
James A.S. Momoh, MCSS Superintendent
He noted that locally made armchairs often deteriorate within a year, primarily due to the inferior quality of materials and the extensive use by students.
In a recent briefing to journalists at the MCSS Central Office, Superintendent Momoh confirmed that he has been tasked by President Boakai to collaborate with Senior Political Advisor, Macdella Cooper and relevant stakeholders to oversee the supply of the armchairs.
Responding to rumors regarding potential funding for the chairs, the MCSS pointed out that it has not received contracts worth $1.2 million or $3 million, as speculated in local media reports.
According to the MCSS, the allegations, something this news outlet has not been able to independently verify. But MCSS officials maintained that the reports are unfounded and appear to be an attempt to tarnish the institution’s reputation.
The MCSS clarified that it operates on a budget of $4.2 million—accessible on the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning’s website—with the majority allocated to salaries.
The remaining funds, approximately $300,000, are dedicated to goods and services for the 25 schools under its management.
More claims, more MCSS clarifications
Responding to recent claims made by Mr. Stanton A. Whitherspoon on the November 9th edition of Spoon Talk, the MCSS reiterated its commitment to transparency, challenging those spreading misinformation to provide evidence of their claims, including the origin of any supposed funds.
The 22,500 armchairs, described as President Boakai’s birthday gift in anticipation of his November 30 celebration, are expected to last significantly longer than locally produced chairs, with a lifespan of five to ten years compared to the average one year for locally made options.
In a statement issued in Monrovia on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the MCSS expressed gratitude to President Boakai for his generous gesture, affirming that it reflects his dedication to improving the educational landscape in Liberia.