MONROVIA – The House of Representatives’ Committees on Education and Health on Thursday, September 11, 2025, convened a public hearing on a draft bill seeking to elevate the Tubman National Institute of Medical Arts (TNIMA) into a degree-granting institution.
The hearing, held in the House’s first floor conference room, brought together medical practitioners, educators, and representatives from key institutions, including the Commission on Higher Education, the University of Liberia, the Liberia Nursing and Midwifery Board, the Midwifery Association of Liberia, and TNIMA authorities.
The bill, introduced by Hon. Augustine B. Chiewolo of Lofa County Electoral District #5, seeks to transform TNIMA, which was established in 1945, into a Bachelor’s degree-awarding institution. Rep. Chiewolo noted that over the decades, TNIMA has trained and graduated countless medical practitioners who have contributed significantly to the nation’s health sector. However, he stressed that despite its long-standing service, the institution continues to grant only diplomas, which he argued is insufficient in addressing Liberia’s evolving healthcare needs.
“TNIMA has been a cornerstone in training healthcare workers for our country. It is time that we elevate it to degree-granting status to match current educational standards and meet the pressing demands of our health sector,” Rep. Chiewolo said.
Opening the session, Hon. Nyan Flomo, Chair of the House Committee on Education, underscored the importance of the deliberations, describing the bill as a timely step toward strengthening Liberia’s healthcare workforce. He maintained that upgrading TNIMA will not only improve the institution’s academic standing but also enhance the overall quality of medical care in the country.
Following the day’s discussions, the committees mandated a sub-committee to continue consultations and review submissions made during the hearing. The sub-committee is expected to present its findings within two weeks, after which the joint committee will make a recommendation to the plenary of the House of Representatives for legislative consideration.
