Kutar Morgan: Building Liberia’s Future Through Music and Education
Kutar, in front of his home © Unicef/Vincent Tremeau/Studio Humanity
In New Kru Town Adolescents Resource Center, Liberia, melodies intertwine with dreams as Kutar Morgan, a 23-year-old music teacher, transforms lives one note at a time. A high school instructor by day and a passionate music educator under UNICEF’s Let Us Learn program, Kutar embodies resilience, hope, and the power of education.
"Music is life," Kutar reflects with a warm smile. "It heals, it inspires, and it builds the mind." His journey with the Let Us Learn initiative started as a volunteer four years ago. Back then, his passion for working with youth shone through as he taught songs and performances for ceremonies. Recognizing his talent, the program offered him a formal role as a music instructor.
"Music is life. It heals, it inspires, and it builds the mind."
Kutar C. Morgan, Jr., 23, Music Teacher, teaches students some songs, at the Youth Center in New Kru Town, Monrovia, Liberia. © Unicef/Vincent Tremeau/Studio Humanity
The Song of Change
Kutar’s creativity led to the creation of an anthem for the Let Us Learn program, a song that reflects the struggles and aspirations of Liberian youth. "I wrote the song one evening after teaching," Kutar recalls. "I wanted something that would inspire the children and highlight how education shapes the future."
The lyrics echo this vision:
We are the future builders, incoming future leaders.
The little help you give to us will make the future brighter.
Liberia is all we’ve got; it’s time we fight for education."
Performed by his students, the song quickly became a rallying cry for the program, embodying its mission to provide vulnerable children with access to education and skills training. "Hearing the children sing it with joy and pride—it’s like a dream come true," Kutar shares.
Eben Kelvin Reeves ©Vincent Tremeau/Unicef Liberia
Kutar C. Morgan, Jr., 23, Music Teacher, teaches students some songs, at the Youth Center in New Kru Town, Monrovia, Liberia. © Unicef/Vincent Tremeau/Studio Humanity
Transforming Lives, One Child at a Time
The Let Us Learn program has been a life changing place for many children in Liberia’s marginalised communities. Supported by UNICEF, it provides holistic education, vocational training, and life skills for youth who have faced challenges such as drug abuse, homelessness, or early pregnancy.
Through the program, Kutar works with 25 young beneficiaries, including vulnerable girls and boys. He teaches music theory, piano skills, and vocal training while embedding life lessons about perseverance and self-worth. "Some of these kids came from the streets, and now they are thriving. That’s the power of education and love," he says.
The impact is palpable. Many beneficiaries have turned their lives around, now holding jobs in respected establishments or continuing their education. For Kutar, seeing this transformation is deeply fulfilling. "When I teach, and they respond—when they sing my song with their whole heart—it inspires me to do more."
“When I see the kids progressing, it gives me strength. Their joy and growth remind me why I do this.”
Personal Growth Through Service
The program has not only transformed the lives of its students but has also left an indelible mark on Kutar himself. Teaching has strengthened his resolve to push through his own struggles. Despite challenges like transportation costs and the distance to teaching centres, he remains steadfast.
"Sometimes it’s hard," he admits. "But when I see the kids progressing, it gives me strength. Their joy and growth remind me why I do this."
Kutar dreams of furthering his own education and expanding the music department. "I wish we had more instruments," he says. "With just one keyboard for 25 students, it’s tough, but we make it work. Imagine what we could do with more."
Kutar C. Morgan © Vincent Tremeau/Unicef Liberia
"Be the change you want to see. With education, we can rise."
Hope for the Future
Looking ahead, Kutar envisions a brighter Liberia where education and creativity empower the next generation. "We are in the era of education," he says. "If young people focus on learning and growth, we can transform our nation."
Kutar’s anthem for the Let Us Learn program speaks not only to the resilience of Liberia’s youth but also to his unwavering belief in the power of education. "Be the change you want to see," he emphasises. "With education, we can rise."
Through his dedication and talent, Kutar Morgan is more than a teacher; he is a hope for his students and a testament to the transformative power of UNICEF’s work in Liberia.
