(Ecofin Agency) - World Bank approved, yesterday June 19, $11.07 million in financing to Liberia to reinforce the country’s education sector. This support granted under the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) will mainly focus on improving equitable access to early childhood education and capacity building for teachers in elementary and primary schools.

According to World Bank’s Liberia country manager Larisa Leschenko (right on photo), this project will be centered on six counties including Rivercess, Sinoe, Grand Kru, Maryland, River Gee and Bomi. As well, 570 schools will benefit from the grant; 1,400 teachers and 1,500 principals are expected to be trained. In addition, a new School Quality Assessment Tool will be set to better monitor and assess the education system.

“The signing further confirms the World Bank and Global Partnership for Education’s commitment to work with the Government and to coordinate with partners to ensure the Pro-Poor Agenda moves forward through evidence-driven, coordinated, and impactful support,” Larisa Leschencko said.

Samuel D. Tweah (left on photo), the country’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, recalled that education is a priority for Liberia and the government is working on mobilizing resources from partners to provide students with affordable and quality education.