A US$12,000 national budget-funded project is set to transform education in Kiteabo Chiefdom, River Gee County, as construction nears completion on a modern five-classroom annex at Chea Cheepo Elementary and Junior High School.
The project marks the first time since the school’s establishment that it has received direct funding from Liberia’s National Budget.
Once completed, the new facility is expected to ease overcrowding, improve learning conditions, and expand access to quality education for hundreds of students.
Over the weekend, PTA Chairman Old-man Sampson B. Nyenpan said the school received the allocation under the 2024/2025 National Budget.
“This is the first time Chea Cheepo Elementary and Junior High has benefited from national budget support,” Nyenpan said. “Part of the US$12,000 is being used to construct these five modern classrooms that will give our students a safer, more comfortable and conducive place to learn.”
He credited River Gee County Senator Francis SaidyDopoh II for lobbying to have the school included in the national budget.
“Through the efforts of Senator Dopoh, our school was included in the budget.
Today, our students and the entire community are benefiting, and we are sincerely grateful,” he added.
School authorities said more than 500 students enrolled during the last academic year, creating severe pressure on existing classrooms.
The school currently operates with four government-paid teachers and three volunteer teachers.
Nyenpan disclosed that the volunteer teachers have also begun receiving financial support from the national government in recognition of their service.
When completed, the annex is expected to reduce overcrowding, improve instructional delivery, increase student participation, and provide teachers with a better environment for quality teaching.
Parents, teachers, and community members have welcomed the project as a major milestone for education in Electoral District #3, which is represented by Hon.
Johnson S. N. Williams.
Kiteabo Chiefdom comprises more than five towns and several villages in southeastern River Gee, where demand for education continues to grow.
Stakeholders are calling on the Government of Liberia and development partners to continue expanding educational infrastructure and support for rural schools across the county.
As construction enters its final phase, excitement is growing among students, parents, and teachers, who describe the new annex as a lasting symbol of progress and renewed hope for education in River Gee.
