Monrovia – The Precious Pearl Ireland Foundation (PPIF), in collaboration with the Sustainable Empowerment for Economic and Environmental Development (SEED), has honored the memory of Precious Ireland, a 14-year-old girl tragically lost to violence, by certifying 26 graduates in psychological counseling, child protection, and advocacy.
The two institutions joined hands to certify the 26 individuals in psychological counseling, child protection, and advocacy. This initiative, named in memory of Precious Ireland, the 14-year-old who lost her life to a tragic incident at the Cyber-Ed Christian School of Excellence, aims to turn a painful event into an opportunity for positive change.
Madam Rita-Rose Ireland, the founder and executive director of PPIF, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to make a difference, saying, “We are grateful that we can use this tragic incident to benefit others. It is our hope that, through this collaboration, we can ensure the safety of our children.”
PPIF is committed to addressing issues such as child bullying and trauma to prevent children from experiencing regrettable incidents like the one that claimed Precious Ireland’s life. Mrs. Ireland, who is also the late Precious’ mother, emphasized that Liberia, like many other places, must address the psychological impact on both children and adults resulting from its history.
She added, “For the foundation, the well-being of children is of paramount importance to society, and Liberia is no exception.”
She stressed that children in Liberia, as in other parts of the world, deserve to grow, learn, and play in an environment free from violence. While acknowledging the efforts made by the Ministry of Education to protect children, she emphasized that there is still work to be done and urged the government to collaborate with partners to address these issues.
She stated, “It is crucial for the government, civil society, and international organizations to provide a safe and nurturing environment for the country’s most vulnerable members. Liberia can empower its children to contribute positively to the nation’s development and progress.”
V. Roosevelt Cassell, executive director and lead trainer at SEED, highlighted the importance of providing psychological support to children, noting that it helps shape them into impactful citizens.
“I am grateful that God has blessed me with the ability to impact both adults and children. Many of us underestimate the value of counseling our children, which is why they are going astray today,” he said.
Mr. Cassell strongly recommended that children’s rights and the law protecting them be taught in all schools, and that both parents and teachers have a good understanding of these laws. He stated, “Teaching child rights in all schools is essential. Every teacher in the classroom should be well-versed in these laws.”
He added, “We hope that these graduates, along with those who will follow as we move towards diploma-level education, will be active participants in this crucial endeavor.”
Madam Felecia Somah, Assistant Minister at the Bureau of Basic and Secondary Education within the Ministry of Education, encouraged the graduates to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the program. She assured the government’s full support for this initiative.
“I take great pleasure in acknowledging the history and positive impact of this program. It has been made possible through collaborative efforts,” she stated.
“In memory of Precious Ireland, these graduates are now equipped to make a significant impact on the well-being and future of Liberia’s children.”
