The House of Representatives joint Committee on Education and Public Administration, Judiciary, Banking and Finance and Ways, Means and Finance Wednesday held a public hearing with the Ministry of Education and key stakeholders on the proposed ratification of a US$60 million International Development Association (IDA) Credit to fund the Liberia Excellence in Learning (EXCEL) Project.
Opening the hearing, Hon. Nyan Flomo, Chair of the Committee, said the session was convened to critically examine the loan agreement in keeping with the Legislatureโs constitutional oversight responsibility.
He emphasized that while lawmakers recognize the urgent need for investment in the education sector, the proposed loan must be justified and aligned with national priorities.
โOur role is to be stewards of the public purse. A loan of this magnitude is not a grant; it is a debt that will be borne by future generations. Therefore, our approval cannot be automaticโit must be earned and justified,โ Hon. Flomo stated.
Making a presentation, Education Minister Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah explained that the Liberia EXCEL Project seeks to improve foundational learning across 2,337 public schools in all 15 counties. The $60 million IDA credit, she said, will also unlock an additional $28.7 million grant from the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), bringing the total package to $88.7 million.
Dr. Jallah noted that the project aims to strengthen early childhood and primary education, reduce the education financing gap, and advance the governmentโs ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
The joint legislative hearing continues as lawmakers review the Ministryโs justifications before deciding on the ratification of the loan agreement.
