Deputy Minister for Research, Policy and Planning at the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Curtis V. Dorley, has hailed the China-Liberia Friendship School as a beacon of educational empowerment and global connection.
Delivering the keynote address at the 3rd Gala Day Celebration of the China-Liberia Friendship School, Inc., held on Monday, May 26, DMRRP reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to education, cultural exchange, and youth development through language learning.
Speaking under the theme, “Learning Languages is a Gateway to the World’s Economy,” Deputy Minister Dorley emphasized that language is more than just a tool for communication, stressing that it is a strategic asset in the modern global economy.
“In today’s world, communication is a currency. Language is the passport. Those who speak more than one language hold the key to a world full of opportunities,” said Minister Dorley.
Highlighting the school’s significance, he praised the China-Liberia Friendship School as a product of a visionary partnership rooted in education and mutual respect. He commended the school for going beyond traditional instruction by preparing students not only for exams, but also for international engagement and leadership.
“This school is not just a building; it is a bridge between two great nations, between communities, and between young minds and global opportunities,” he stated.
Deputy Minister Dorley also connected the theme of the celebration to the Government of Liberia’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), which places human capital development at the center of national progress. Citing statistics from the World Economic Forum, he noted that more than 70% of global trade occurs among multilingual populations, making language acquisition not just beneficial, but essential.
He underscored the growing importance of learning Mandarin and English, especially as China remains Africa’s largest trading partner, and English continues to dominate in the fields of business, science, and technology.
To the students, Hon. Dorley delivered an uplifting message: “Every word you learn is an investment in your future. Every sentence you speak in another language brings you one step closer to a world of endless possibilities.”
He extended sincere appreciation to the teachers, both local and international, for their dedication to nurturing Liberia’s future leaders and acknowledged the Chinese and Liberian partners who helped bring the school’s vision to life.
In a forward-thinking proposal, Hon. Dorley called for the creation of a South-South exchange program between Liberia and China, aimed at giving students from both nations opportunities to share knowledge, culture, and skills. He noted that such an initiative would enrich their perspectives and prepare them for global citizenship.
“Let this anniversary remind us that collaboration can overcome barriers. That unity in diversity is not just a slogan, but a pathway to peace, progress, and prosperity,” he concluded.
The event brought together a cross-section of dignitaries and stakeholders, including representatives from the Chinese Embassy, members of the Liberian educational sector, and officials from various government ministries, all united in celebrating the impact of language and learning in shaping the future of Liberia’s youth.
As the China-Liberia Friendship School celebrates three years of impactful service, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection reaffirmed its unwavering support for the school’s mission to educate, empower, and inspire young Liberians who are the next generation of leaders.
