By: Sampat JMB Kpakimah
The Center for National Documents and Records Agency (CNDRA) is seeking a major partnership with the Government of India to modernize Liberia’s archival system through digitization, professional training, and the expansion of library services across the country.
The appeal was made Today, July 9, 2026 when Director General Nelson Bearngar led a nine-member delegation to the Embassy of India in Monrovia, where he outlined an ambitious vision aimed at transforming the country’s archives and preserving Liberia’s documentary heritage.
Rather than requesting direct financial assistance, Bearngar said the National Archives is prioritizing technical expertise, logistics, and institutional cooperation that will strengthen the Agency’s capacity to safeguard historical records and improve public access to information.
“We do not need physical cash, but we need technical and logistical opportunities from you,” Bearngar told Indian Ambassador Manoj Bihari Verma.
Among the Agency’s key proposals are scholarships and professional training for staff, the digitization of Liberia’s archival records, cultural exchange programs, technical assistance to establish libraries in counties nationwide, and a partnership with an Indian university to introduce Archival and Library Science as a degree program at the University of Liberia.
Bearngar said establishing the academic program would help produce a new generation of trained archivists and librarians capable of managing and preserving Liberia’s historical records for future generations.
He also praised the Government of India for establishing the India Corner at the National Public Library, describing the initiative as a significant contribution to educational and cultural cooperation between the two countries.
The Director General further revealed plans to invite Ambassador Verma to tour the National Archives headquarters and selected county offices to assess the institution’s operations, achievements, and pressing challenges.
Highlighting one of those challenges, Bearngar disclosed that the Agency’s only staff bus is out of service, a situation he said is hampering field operations and staff mobility, and appealed for logistical assistance.
Responding, Ambassador Verma reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting the National Archives and encouraged the Agency to take advantage of scholarship and professional development opportunities offered by the Government of India through its online application platform.
The Ambassador also pledged continued support for the India Corner at the National Public Library, while noting that although large-scale development initiatives are coordinated through Liberia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, several areas of cooperation could be pursued directly between the Embassy and the National Archives.
He expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between the two institutions would help preserve Liberia’s documentary heritage while deepening educational and cultural ties between Liberia and India.
