House Cross-Exams Bill to Grant Autonomy to Zwedru Multilateral Institute

MONROVIA: The House of Representatives has launched a major legislative process that could reshape technical and vocational education in southeastern Liberia, directing the committees on Education, Good Governance, Ways and Means, and Judiciary to review a bill seeking to establish the Zwedru Multilateral Institute (ZMI) as an autonomous institution.

The bill was introduced by Grand Gedeh County District #1 Representative Jeremiah Sokan, who described it as a strategic step toward expanding access to quality and practical education for young people in the region.

“This bill is about creating an environment where every Liberian child, no matter their background, can study, learn, and achieve without discrimination,” Rep. Sokan told the House. “We want to give our young people the tools to compete and succeed in today’s economy.”

He explained that the proposed Zwedru Multilateral Institute will be aligned with Liberia’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) framework and will also support the government’s ARREST development agenda.

“Our development goals cannot be achieved without a skilled workforce. ZMI will help produce technicians, entrepreneurs, and professionals who will drive growth in the Southeast,” he said.

Sokan also reminded lawmakers of the long history of the institution, noting that Zwedru Multilateral High School was established in 1961 to serve a large and youthful population with both academic and vocational training.

“For more than 60 years, this school has been a pillar of learning for our people,” he said. “By elevating it to an autonomous institute, we are strengthening its ability to meet modern educational standards and workforce demands.”

The lawmaker further emphasized the national importance of the bill, stating, “If this instrument is enacted into law, Zwedru Multilateral Institute will become the second autonomous technical and vocational institution in Liberia after the Booker Washington Institute. That is a major milestone for our education system.”

According to Representative Sokan, granting the school autonomous status will allow it to better manage its programs, attract resources, and respond more effectively to the needs of students and employers.

Meanwhile, the joint committee is expected to thoroughly review the bill and submit a detailed report to plenary, after which lawmakers will decide the next steps toward the possible transformation of Zwedru Multilateral into a nationally recognized technical and vocational institute.