The Liberia Reads! Association of Literacy Educators (LR!ALE) proudly marked its presence at the prestigious 14th Pan African Literacy for All (PALFA) Conference, hosted at the University of Lagos, Nigeria. Held over five days from October 13-17, 2025, the significant event served as a crucial gathering for a diverse group of stakeholders, including educators, researchers, and policymakers from across the African continent. The primary objective was to delve into innovative methodologies and strategies aimed at bolstering literacy and enhancing learning outcomes throughout Africa.

Under the compelling theme, "Shaping the Future of Africa through Innovative Literacy Approaches," this year's conference underscored the indispensable roles of collaborative efforts and the development of localized solutions in propelling the literacy agenda forward. Liberia Reads! was ably represented by its Country Director, Mr. Siaffa P. Korkoyah, and the President of the Association, Mrs. Margaret S. Suah. Their participation was a testament to Liberia's commitment to advancing literacy initiatives.

A notable highlight of Liberia Reads!'s contribution to the conference was a compelling workshop presentation delivered by the duo. Titled "Five Lessons Learned Teaching Children to Read Well in Liberian Classrooms without USAID Funding," their session garnered considerable attention. The presentation meticulously articulated how the consistent application of effective classroom practices, coupled with robust community partnerships, can yield remarkable and measurable results in early-grade reading proficiency. This was particularly significant given that these achievements were made even within resource-constrained environments and notably without a heavy reliance on external financial support, such as that typically provided by USAID.

Participants at the conference were keenly interested in understanding the practical strategies and approaches employed by Liberia Reads! that enable the organization to make tangible progress in early-grade reading, independent of substantial external funding. The session effectively demonstrated a model of self-sufficiency and localized empowerment in literacy education.

Beyond the specific workshop, the 14th PALFA Conference itself proved to be an invaluable forum. It provided a powerful platform for the exchange of knowledge, fostering continent-wide collaboration, and facilitating critical reflection on the myriad strategies currently shaping literacy education across Africa. For Liberia Reads!, the conference served to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to its foundational mission: ensuring that every Liberian child not only acquires the fundamental skill of reading but also cultivates the ability to read to learn, thereby unlocking broader educational opportunities.

As Liberia Reads! continues to forge ahead, its strategic initiatives include the expansion of vital teacher training programs, the widespread distribution of essential learning materials, and the vigorous promotion of evidence-based literacy practices. Through these concerted efforts, the organization remains steadfast in its dedication to transforming classrooms and, by extension, empowering the next generation of readers throughout Liberia, securing a brighter future for the nation's youth.