Residents of Beletanla, a village in District Two of Bong County, Liberia, are expressing concern about the state of their local public school. The school's roof is damaged, leaving students vulnerable to the elements, and there is a shortage of chairs, making it difficult for students to learn. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that the school has only two government-assigned teachers and two volunteer teachers who are not on the official payroll.
The lack of infrastructure and staffing at Beletanla Public School has a direct impact on attendance and learning. During the rainy season, which spans several months in Liberia, students are often sent home when it rains because the building is not able to shelter them. This disrupts academic activities and puts students at risk of falling behind their peers in better-equipped schools. The school's Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) has taken on the responsibility of paying the volunteer teachers, but this arrangement is fragile and unsustainable.
Blemeyea Public School, also known as Barsee Kpangbai Public School, faces similar challenges. The school has only two teachers, one of whom is currently unwell, leaving the acting Principal, James Kollie Kpontah, to teach students from the ABC class to the fifth grade. This puts a huge strain on Kpontah, who has to dismiss students early to travel to Gbarnga. The school also lacks sufficient instructional materials, which further affects the learning environment.
The situation at both schools highlights the broader challenges facing education in rural Liberia. The lack of infrastructure, staffing, and resources means that students in these areas are at a disadvantage compared to their peers in better-equipped schools. The strain on teachers and students is palpable, and the situation is likely to have long-term consequences for the education and development of the children.
FrontPage Africa sought comment from the Bong County Education Officer, David Boakai, but was unable to get a response. The Education Officer's phone rang endlessly without answer, leaving important questions unanswered. Residents and school officials are waiting for answers, and this newspaper remains open to hearing from the county education office.
The people of Beletanla and Blemeyea are calling for urgent action to address the challenges facing their schools. They want a repaired roof, chairs for students, additional teachers, and materials to support learning. For PTA members who have been carrying the cost of volunteer teachers, a lasting government solution would bring long-awaited relief. Until that support arrives, the children of District Two will continue to face significant challenges in their education.
The situation at Beletanla and Blemeyea Public Schools is a stark reminder of the need for investment in education infrastructure and staffing in rural Liberia. The government and development partners must take urgent action to address the challenges facing these schools and ensure that all children have access to quality education.
Key points
- The schools lack sufficient infrastructure, including a damaged roof and chairs, and face staffing shortages.
- The situation has a direct impact on attendance and learning, with students often sent home due to rain or lack of resources.
- Residents and school officials are calling for urgent action from the government to address the challenges facing the schools.
