PHOTO: Mr. Emmanuel N. Elliott, Jr.
KAKATA, Liberia- The Principal of an elementary school here, the Royal Christian Academy located in Bassa Community in Margibi County, Emmanuel N. Elliott, Jr. has blamed the Liberian government “losses” incurred by his school and other schools in the country”.
Mr. Elloitt said schools in the country incurred the losses as the result of their abrupt closure by the Government of Liberia and the inconsistencies in the yearly academic calendar.
He indicated that at one point in time, the Ministry of Education (MOE) will announce the closure of schools and at another point, there is different information that creates serious embarrassment for the operations of schools in Liberia.
The Kakata school principal was speaking recently when his institution graduated thirty-four students from the kindergarten and elementary sections.
Making specific reference to his institution, the Liberian educator indicated that the government caused private schoolsm serious deficit when the MOE abruptly announced the closure of schools where they were already accustomed to a particular time, but said they managed to have recover it.
When this happens, according to him, some of the students who are indebted to their schools will not pay their remaining tuitions while some will not return to the same institution adding that this has been causing a serious setback not only to his school but other schools as well.
Mr. Elliott stated that when these situations occur, government does absolutely nothing about recovering the losses but it is incumbent upon them as schools to pay their teachers and staff members and ensure the schools remain in full operation.
The tuition students pay is the only source of income of the Royal Christian Academy, according to its Principal.
He is however calling on the Liberian government through the Ministry of Education to work in straight line with schools and all educational stakeholders to ensure that decisions that are reached do not create setback for schools in the country.
At the same time, during the graduation of the Royal Christian Academy, many of the parents and guardians expressed their delight over the splendid performances of their children.
They are encouraging Principal Emmanuel N. Elliott and his team to remain steadfast in providing quality education for their children.