Monrovia - The newly inducted Board of Directors of the Liberia National PTA Network has announced an ambitious vision to transform the relationship between parents and the education system, advocating for parental groups to be recognized as "essential stakeholders" in policy and budget discussions.
By Francis G. Boayue
The National PTA Network of Liberia Advisory Board, which includes Atty. Magnus A. Mabande, Mrs. Marie N. Mars, Rev. Charsley K. Kumbly, Rev. Matthew Borbor, Mr. Mark A. Thomas, Mr. Isaac D. Peters and Mr. Patrick Jalloh, were all installed over the weekend by the Montserrado Education Officer.
The Chairperson of the Board of Directors, Atty. Magnus A. Mabande, during the induction ceremony made a declaration emphasizing that the PTA Network's core mission is to shift parents from being "passive observers" to "active partners in shaping the academic and social development of the children of Liberia."
Atty. Magnus A. Mabande outlined a strategic plan focused on institutionalizing the role of the PTA at every level of education governance through genuine partnership with the Ministry of Education, adding that the Board will immediately pursue a collaborative framework to ensure PTA leaderships are included in policy formulation and execution, school monitoring, and community engagement.
He further said a major goal is to "institutionalize PTA representation in district and national education planning platforms and also establish and empower to directly support school governance, infrastructure development, and student welfare.
He said the Board envisions a system where every school has a vibrant PTA that works hand-in-hand with school administrators.
"The Network called upon international partners to "invest in capacity-building for PTAs," support community-led school improvement initiatives, and integrate parental voices into program design and evaluation.
He further underscored the relevance of PTAs in local school governance, noting their critical, multifaceted roles.
"When PTAs are strong, schools thrive. When parents are engaged, students succeed."
Concluding the ceremony, the Chairperson issued a "call to action," starting with the newly inducted Board itself.
"Our leadership is a beacon of hope. We need to lead with integrity, listen to our communities, and we should never lose sight of the transformative power of education... To every parent and educator: your voice matters. Your involvement is the cornerstone of a better future for our children. Together, let us build a Liberia where every child learns in a safe, supportive, and empowered environment."