And Operational Support For Under-Privileged Children
By Aruna Goepogui
MONROVIA, Liberia–The Arena Recreation Academy School of Excellence, an educational institution in the Virginia suburb of the Liberian capital is appealing to well-meaning citizens and other stakeholders for more than LRD$1 million to support teacher compensation and other operational costs.
Since its establishment in 2018, the school says it has provided free education to more than 150 children, including early childhood and primary-level students, while also offering learning materials and daily meals to children from Tyre-Shop, and surrounding communities.
The appeal was made during a recent fundraising program held at the school in Tyre-Shop, Lower Virginia, Montserrado County, under the theme, “ Let’s Educate a Child”.
Speaking at the program, Pastor Deborah Togar, Vision Bearer of the school, said she was inspired by a vision from God to help children access education, particularly those whose parents may not have the financial means to send them to school.
Pastor Togar urged individuals and organizations to contribute toward educating children, emphasizing that investment in education is essential to the future development of Liberia.
She said children are the future leaders of the country and encouraged Liberians to consider supporting at least one child to attend school, noting that such an investment could contribute to positive changes in communities and the country as a whole.
Meanwhile, Arena Recreation Academy School of Excellence Vice Principal for Administration Emmanuel Tamba outlined challenges facing the institution, including the lack of a permanent campus, inadequate learning materials and insufficient compensation for teachers.
According to Tamba, financial contributions from the public would help the school construct permanent classrooms, acquire educational materials and improve incentives for teachers.
He said providing children with a conducive learning environment and the necessary educational resources would help nurture their talents and prepare them to become responsible leaders of tomorrow.
Also speaking at the fundraising event, Commissioner of the Township of Oldest Congo Town, Edward Lahai, commended the school for its contribution to education and community development.
He called on stakeholders, parents, community leaders and the general public to support the institution’s efforts to provide free education to children.
The Commissioner emphasized that helping a child access quality education is an investment in Liberia’s future and urged individuals to join the campaign to ensure that more children remain in school.