Official Update: Ministry of Education Responds to Incident at Berea Christian Academy of Excellence.

Official Update: Ministry of Education Responds to Incident at Berea Christian Academy of Excellence

The safety and well-being of every student in Liberia is a sacred responsibility. The Ministry of Education is issuing this official update regarding a serious child protection incident reported at Berea Christian Academy of Excellence in Sophie Community, Sinkor.

On December 12, 2025, the Ministry received reports that a Grade 10 student, Roseline Matilda (17 years old), along with at least seventeen other students, were subjected to corporal punishment and physical abuse during a school-sanctioned disciplinary exercise. Preliminary findings established that the acts involved multiple members of the school’s administration and teaching staff. One student reportedly lost consciousness and was hospitalized. This incident constitutes a grave violation of Liberian law and the national prohibition on corporal punishment.

In response, and in line with Government policy, the Ministry of Education has taken immediate administrative action. A fine of LD 250,000 has been imposed on Berea Christian Academy of Excellence for violations of child protection regulations. Additionally, the following individuals have been suspended from all educational activities pending the outcome of ongoing investigations:

1. Ms. Julia Bohui – Principal

2. ⁠ Mr. Jeremiah G. Zonnoe – Registrar

3. ⁠Mr. Anthony Z. Karmah – Teacher

4. ⁠Mr. Joseph Zaza Jr. – Teacher

5. ⁠Mr. Edwen McDonald – Teacher

Parallel to these actions, the Liberia National Police has launched a criminal investigation. According to official police reports, Ms. Julia Bohui, Mr. Jeremiah G. Zonnoe, and Mr. Anthony Z. Karmah have been arrested and are currently under investigation for aggravated assault.

All child protection and welfare matters have been formally referred to the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, which is providing psychosocial support and engaging parents and guardians. Where necessary, the Ministry of Education will facilitate the relocation of affected students to ensure uninterrupted learning in a safe environment.

A full compliance assessment of the school is also underway, covering facilities, staffing, administrative structures, and permit requirements. The school’s future operations will be determined based on these findings.

The Government of Liberia reiterates its zero-tolerance policy toward corporal punishment and child abuse in all schools, public and private. Discipline must never come at the expense of a child’s physical or psychological well-being.

The Ministry assures parents and the public that this matter is being handled with the highest level of seriousness and that all appropriate administrative and legal actions will be pursued to their lawful conclusion. Further updates will be shared through official channels.

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