By Amos Harris
The House of Representatives has sent proposed legislation for the establishment of the River Gee County Community College to the Liberian Senate for concurrence. This move follows thorough deliberations and a favorable report from the House’s Joint Committee on Education and Public Administration and Judiciary.
The bill, introduced by Representative Alexander Poure of District #1, River Gee County, seeks to establish a full-fledged community college in the southeastern county. The primary goal is to expand access to quality and affordable higher education for residents who have long been without such opportunities.
According to the Joint Committee’s report, this initiative directly addresses a significant educational gap in River Gee County, a region that continues to struggle with limited access to tertiary education. The committee emphasized that the college’s establishment would not only enhance academic prospects but also equip students with essential technical and vocational skills crucial for Liberia’s workforce development.
During plenary discussion, lawmakers voiced strong support for the bill, with many commending Representative Poure for championing educational equity in underserved areas. They agreed that the institution would play a transformative role in reducing youth unemployment and rural-urban migration by offering residents opportunities for self-empowerment right in their own communities.
Representative Poure, speaking during the session, described the proposed college as a “cornerstone for River Gee’s future development.” He stressed the urgent need to invest in human capital through education, particularly in remote and historically marginalized counties.
“This community college will serve as a beacon of hope for the youth of River Gee County,” said Poure. “It will provide access to the kind of education and training that builds resilient communities, fosters innovation, and promotes inclusive development.”
He called on the Liberian Senate to prioritize and act swiftly on the legislation, emphasizing that the educational needs of River Gee residents have been overlooked for far too long.