Exploring scaling of inclusive home-based early learning initiative in Liberia: Opportunities and Challenges

This study explored the opportunities and challenges in scaling inclusive home-based early learning in Liberia, focusing on five communities: Zolowee, Sehyikimpa, Zuluyee, Dingamo, and Nengbein in the Sanniquellie-Mahn and Bain-Garr Districts of Nimba County, Liberia. Data collected from 88 respondents revealed a lack of knowledge about home-based schools but a strong willingness to support their establishment. The findings indicate that quality Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) services can be promoted through child development workshops, home visits, community children’s reading clubs, organized play and game events, and the recruitment of home-based teachers. Equipping untrained teachers with play-based pedagogical skills is crucial but currently lacking, while encouraging fathers to share caregiving responsibilities could help overcome traditional gender role challenges. The study concludes that improving access to quality ECCE services in home-based schools requires workshops, home visits, reading clubs, play events, and recruiting home-based teachers. Adapting cultural norms to support play-based learning fosters inclusivity, while raising awareness encourages fathers to share caregiving responsibilities. The study recommends establishing home-based schools, facilitated and supervised by Nimba University and the Liberian Ministry of Education.