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In my personal reflections, I came to understand that World Teachers’ Day (WTD) occurred on Sunday, October 5, and there was little done to honor and recognize the efforts that Liberian educators put in. Given the current challenges within the education system, where teachers are required to maintain teaching standards, one might have expected the Ministry of Education, educational organizations, and development agencies to implement large-scale national initiatives or issue a statement acknowledging the contributions of Liberian teachers.

In numerous nations across the globe, WTD is regarded with significant, and sometimes the greatest, respect as a straightforward method of encouragement. In Liberia, applauding educators, particularly on World Teachers’ Day, is not a main concern.

World Teachers’ Day (WTD)

World Teachers’ Day, observed every October 5, was created by UNESCO in 1994 to mark the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation on the Status of Teachers, an international guideline that acknowledges teachers’ rights, duties, and professional criteria.

The day recognizes the crucial part that teachers have in building societies and advocating for education as a basic human right. The objective is to honor educators around the globe, highlight the difficulties they encounter, and inspire governments and communities to provide support and invest in the teaching field. Through this yearly event, UNESCO reminds everyone that strengthening the role of teachers is key to attaining quality education for all, as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 4.

Celebrating Liberian Teachers

On this World Teachers’ Day, which falls on October 5, 2025, we take a moment to recognize the vital force behind Liberia’s education system—the teachers who keep going with bravery, belief, and determination despite challenges. This year’s global theme, “Collaboration Is Key to Making Teachers Thrive,” resonates strongly with our country’s situation. In Liberia, working together among educators, families, school leaders, and the wider community is not just beneficial but crucial for the continuation and growth of education.

On behalf of the Diversified Educators Empowerment Project (DEEP), I humbly honor this day in particular for the volunteer teachers—the unrecognized champions who do not receive pay but rise early, travel great distances, and face their students with steadfast commitment.

To you, the volunteer teachers who teach under the blazing sun or in classrooms with leaks, driven by your passion for education, you represent genuine sacrifice and hope. Similarly, DEEP sincerely thanks the private school teachers who earn between 7,000 to 15,000 Liberian dollars—far less than what your work and skills are worth. You keep teaching, motivating, and guiding young minds, not because it’s simple, but because you believe every child deserves an opportunity to learn and thrive.

Nevertheless, as we commemorate this occasion, we need to address the troubling inequality in our educational system. While certain senior educators and officials remain behind their desks, benefiting from perks and allowances, the true effort of building the nation takes place in classrooms where teachers work diligently with minimal support. Numerous educators are instructing under harsh conditions—overfilled classrooms, delayed salaries, and insufficient teaching resources—but they continue due to a strong dedication to their students and their country.

Currently, DEEP urges volunteer educators, parents, and local residents to unite in a large-scale partnership—a collective effort advocating for equity, dignity, and improved circumstances for those who uphold the legacy of education. Let us collaborate to ensure that Liberian teachers not only endure but flourish. When educators prosper, students achieve more; when students excel, our country becomes more robust.

To each Liberian teacher who remains strong despite challenges and modesty, we honor you. You are the unseen architects of our country’s future—the enduring supports of Liberia’s progress.

Happy International Teachers’ Day 2025!

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Tagged: Liberia, Education, West Africa

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