To Replace Makeshift Structures Currently Hosting Over One Thousand Students
By Gabriel M C Parker
TUBMANBURG, Liberia- The Education Ministry has officially broken ground for the construction of a school valued at US$295, 000 in Beh Town, Bomi County.
Government is said to be funding the project, which officials say marks a major milestone for education in the area.
When completed, the new school building is intended to replace the makeshift learning structures that have for years accommodated students from elementary through the junior high levels, a situation authorities say has negatively affected learning outcomes.
According to the Education Ministry, more than 1,000 students have been negatively impacted by the lack of adequate facilities, with overcrowding and poor infrastructure posing serious challenges to quality education.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Minister of Education Dr. Jarso Jallah said the decision to elevate Beh Town Public Junior High School to a full high school followed a comprehensive assessment by the Ministry.
“Our findings revealed that many students are forced to walk three to four hours every day to attend the nearest high school, which is unacceptable and detrimental to their education,” Dr. Jallah said.
She noted that the new high school will significantly improve access to secondary education and reduce dropout rates among students who complete junior high school.
As part of the Ministry’s immediate support, Dr. Jallah presented 200 armchairs to the school to help improve the learning environment while construction progresses.
“This project is not just about buildings; it is about restoring dignity to our education system and giving our children a fair chance to succeed,” the Minister emphasized.
The Liberian Education Minister also issued a stern warning regarding accountability, stressing that all funds allocated to the project must be properly managed.
“Every dollar spent on this project must be accounted for, and anyone who undermines its implementation will face serious consequences, including dismissal,” Dr. Jallah warned.
Parents, residents welcome school project
Parents and community members in Beh Town welcomed the project, describing it as a long-awaited intervention that will transform the future of their children.
Several parents said students who complete junior high school often struggle to continue their education due to distance and financial constraints.
Students also expressed excitement, calling the project a “dream come true” that will finally allow them to pursue secondary education without leaving their community.
The construction of the Beh Town High School is expected to ease educational barriers in the area and stands as part of the government’s broader effort to expand access to quality education across Liberia.