Liberia has been named among the ten African countries recognized in the 2025 African Union (AU) Continental Teacher Award.
The honor was conferred on Mr. Allen A. Thomas, an educator from Nimba County, who was selected from a pool of 110 teachers nominated across the continent.
Mr. Thomas, a graduate of ABC University, has built a distinguished career in science education, particularly in rural Liberia. With more than a decade of teaching experience at both primary and secondary levels, he has introduced practical, community-based science instruction that has helped increase student participation in STEM disciplines. His work has been particularly impactful in fostering interest among students who were previously disengaged.
Beyond the classroom, Mr. Thomas is the founder of the Best Teacher Initiative, a program that advocates for professional development opportunities for educators working in underserved communities. His leadership and advocacy extend internationally; in 2024, he was selected as a Mandela Washington Fellow, where he studied Public Management at Bridgewater State University in the United States.
The AU Continental Teacher Award, established in 2019, seeks to celebrate excellence in teaching and elevate the status of the profession across Africa. Each member state is invited to nominate two candidates annually, with winners selected based on demonstrated innovation, impact, and commitment to advancing education.
The 2025 award ceremony is scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in early October. Ahead of the continental celebration, Liberia’s Minister of Education hosted a recognition ceremony in Monrovia, where national leaders, development partners, and members of the press gathered to honor Mr. Thomas’s achievement.
The AU notes that the award contributes to the goals of Agenda 2063 and the Continental Education Strategy for Africa, both of which emphasize quality education as a cornerstone for sustainable development on the continent. Enditem
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