Liberia is a republic in West Africa, founded in the early 19th century by freed African-American slaves. As the first African republic, Liberia carries strong historical ties to the United States, which are visible in its flag, political institutions, and the name of its capital, Monrovia.
However, Liberia’s history has also been marked by two devastating civil wars, which severely damaged not only its economy and infrastructure, but also its education system. Many schools were destroyed or closed, and countless children were denied access to education. Some were even forced into combat as child soldiers. Rebuilding the education system has been a major focus of national recovery, with efforts from both the Liberian government and international partners to reconstruct schools, retrain teachers, and expand basic literacy programs.
When compared to Korea, Liberia’s situation offers a striking parallel. Korea, too, emerged from war and poverty, but quickly made education a national priority, seeing it as the key to economic development and social transformation. In Liberia, that process is still in its early stages—but the belief in education as a path to peace and rebuilding is just as strong.
What struck me most about Liberia was how education is not just a tool for academic learning, but also a means of healing, helping young people learn how to live again after conflict. In this context, going to school is not just about lessons—it’s about regaining normalcy, dignity, and hope.
Liberia helped me realize that education is not something reserved for wealthy or stable nations—it is a fundamental human need, especially in places recovering from trauma. Though Liberia and Korea are worlds apart in geography and history, both demonstrate the power of education to create new beginnings.
And I have some questions.
1. After years of civil war, Liberia has been working to rebuild its education system. How can Liberia learn from South Korea’s experience of using education as a tool for national recovery after war?
2.Given the strong historical influence of the United States on Liberia’s political and educational systems, how can Liberia establish a more independent and culturally rooted identity through its education system?
3. Many children were recruited as soldiers during Liberia’s civil war. In what ways can education contribute to the psychological healing and reintegration of war-affected youth?
