US$1.6M School Facility Dedicated

US$1.6M School Facility Dedicated

By Godgift Harris

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and the World Bank, have officially dedicated a newly constructed state-of-the-art secondary school facility in Gbarnga, Bong County.

The facility, dedicated on Monday, July 21, 2025, is valued at US$1.6 million on Monday, July 21, 2025, is to significantly improve access to quality education.

The infrastructure was constructed under the Improving Results in Secondary Education (IRISE) Project, funded by the World Bank.

 The aim is to enhance learning conditions and promote inclusive education in the country.

At the dedicatory ceremony, Pres. Boakai described the school as a symbol of the government’s unwavering commitment to transform education under the ARREST Agenda.

The President called on students to take full advantage of the opportunity now available to them.

“This new school provides a good learning environment that helps you to stay focused,” Boakai stated.

“We urge all county officials and community members to protect and maintain this facility. More development projects are coming. We deeply appreciate the collaboration of all stakeholders, especially the World Bank, for their continued support to the country’s development agenda. This country will become the best in the sub-region,” the President said to a deafening round of applause.

The President emphasized government’s willingness in its drive to decentralize educational opportunities, and create a solid foundation for the youth.

Senator Prince K. Moye, praised the government, and the World Bank for a “transformative gift” to the youth of Bong County.

This US$1.6 million investment is a critical step forward in empowering students. The facility includes computer labs, science laboratories and a well-equipped library. These are tools to use and acquire sound education.

World Bank Country Manager, Georgia Wallen, representing the institution said, the project had its roots in the previous administration, but was brought to completion under the Boakai-led government, highlighting a commitment to continuity and partnership.

“Our support to the country’s education sector is firm, this project reflects the World Bank’s pledge to work with the government in taking education to every doorstep.

It is an opportunity for young people to access the tools needed for their academic journey,” said Madam Wallen.

She urged students to seize this moment, and use the facility to pursue academic excellence that can help transform their lives and communities.

Education Minister Jarso Maley Jallah, lauded the effort and reiterated the ministry’s focus on upholding educational standards nationwide.

“This school consists of 15 fully furnished classrooms, a science laboratory and a resource center.

We are working to ensure that no substandard school exists in the country, and that every child

is included under the ARREST` Agenda,” Dr. Jallah told the gathering.

The project, she said, also aims at reducing the disadvantages faced by students in the rural area.

Traditional leaders, county officials and student representatives were also present at the dedication.

On behalf of the students, a youth leader, praised the government and the World Bank for providing a ‘conducive learning environment’ that will benefit generations to come.

“This is more than a building, it’s a beacon of hope for every student in the county,” said the student leader.

“We thank the government, and the World Bank for putting smiles on our faces.”

 

Chiefs and elders in the region expressed gratitude for “a blessing” and pledged their full support to safeguarding the facility.

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including the county officials, representatives from the six administrative districts of the county, civil society organizations, educational stakeholders, and international partners.

The newly constructed secondary school stands as one of the most modern public educational facilities in central Liberia, setting a precedent for future government, and development partner collaborations in the education sector.