BY: SHALLON S. GONLOR / shallonsgonlor@gmail.com
NIMBA COUNTY — A modern Senior Secondary School, constructed to the tune of $1.6 million United States Dollars, was on Monday commissioned by President Joseph NyumahBoakai, Sr. in Gbarnga, Bong County and Ganta, Nimba County respectively.
The Model Senior Secondary School institution is the latest milestone in the government’s drive to achieve universal secondary education — an ambitious goal that President Boakai described as “a bold stride that spans coastland and hinterland alike.”
Speaking on behalf of President Boakai at the Francis Nya Maweah Model Senior Secondary School dedication in Gompa, Nimba County, Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung said the future of education under President Boakai is not only bright, but it is brilliant. “We are not just building schools. We are creating opportunities, entrenching equity, and fostering greater quality,” Vice President Koung said during the feature address at the commissioning ceremony.
VP Koung affirmed the government’s ongoing commitment to transforming “access into action” in education, where distance means no disadvantage.
He emphasized that the inauguration of the modern school marks a new chapter in the pursuit of educational opportunities for school-going children and future leaders. “The President strongly supports efforts that embody our national commitment to improving access to quality education for every Liberian child,” the VP said. On behalf of President Boakai, Vice President. President Koung expressed special appreciation to members of the community and Mr. Francis Nya Mawean who provided land spot including those who work for the project successful completion.
“…I stand before you today with immense pride and joy as we gather to dedicate this remarkable new senior secondary school in Ganta City, Nimba County,” VP Koung asserted. He highlighted that the construction of the model school symbolizes a significant milestone and collective journey towards transforming Liberia’s educational landscape. “I strongly believe that education remains the cornerstone of national development,” the Vice President said.
“It is the foundation upon which we build better lives for our children and indeed our future as a nation. With this school, we are taking a monumental step towards ensuring our youth have access to the quality education they deserve,” he stated. The Liberian Vice President noted that this is not just a building, it is a beacon of hope and opportunity for the students of Ganta and its surrounding communities. “This new institution is a testament to the hard work and collaboration between the Liberian government and the World Bank partners and the International Development Association of the World Bank Group,” he stated.
With an investment of $1.6 million, according to the Vice President noted is not only expanding education infrastructure, but also committing to a vision where equitable access to quality secondary education is within reach of every child in Liberia. “…as we develop this school, we remain particularly focused on creating an environment that empowers girls to transition and complete their secondary education.” VP Koung described access to education as a powerful tool for change, recognizing that when girls succeed, the community thrives. “This school will provide an opportunity for about 1,000 students, ensuring they receive the support they need to pursue their dreams.”
With this project, VP Koung noted it will help to address the fundamental aspect of quality education.
He added: “We are revamping teacher training curriculum and distributing educational material, promoting modern teaching methods and ensuring digital literacy among our students”. VP Koung committed the government to building capacity to ensures that teachers are well equipped to inspire and guide children. “This initiative aligns with our Government A R R E S T agenda for inclusive development and Liberia educational sector plan.”
Admonishing teachers, the Vice President encouraged educators to embrace the opportunity with open arms. “You are not just educators, you are mentors and leaders.” He further stated “Your dedication and passion will shape the future of these young minds. You will inspire them to dream big, aim high, and to conquer the challenges they may face.” Perseverance and commitment to study, the Vice President noted will pave the way for future sources. “Take full advantage of this facility; make learning your priority and remember that the knowledge you gain here will empower you tomorrow,”
VP Koung concluded: “As we cut the ribbon and officially open the doors to this new school, let us all be reminded of our commitment to education, progress, and equal opportunities for every child. Together, we are building a brighter future, one where every child, regardless of their circumstance, has the chance to learn, grow, and succeed.” The USD 1.6 million project was implemented by the Ministry of Education which hired Constar Inc. as the contractor to carry out the construction works.
The Ministry of Education, with support from the World Bank’s Improving Results in Secondary Education (IRISE) Project, led the construction of the modern facilities in Gompa City, Nimba County.
The construction of several model schools across the country aligns with a national strategy to strengthen secondary education infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The Francis Nya Maweah Model Senior Secondary School was built under Component 1 of the IRISE Project, which focuses on enhancing access and the learning environment at the senior secondary level.
The campus features furnished classrooms, science and computer laboratories, administrative offices, gender-sensitive sanitation facilities, a safe water supply, perimeter fencing, and recreational spaces.
The new facility is expected to alleviate pressure on existing institutions and foster a more inclusive and equitable educational environment, with a special focus on increasing girls’ participation. To ensure high standards, both student enrollmentand teacher recruitment will be strictly merit-based. Only the best-performing students will be admitted, and instructional staff will comprise highly qualified teachers who have undergone thorough vetting.
President Boakai’s dedication of the school in Bong and Nimba Counties underscores his administration’s commitment to human capital development as outlined in the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
The construction of these modern educational infrastructures highlights the strength of the government’s partnership with the World Bank and their shared vision for a resilient education system in Liberia. The Ministry of Education reaffirms its commitment to providing inclusive, high-quality education to all Liberian students, regardless of location or background.
