The groundbreaking ceremony for the Kolietawolah Junior High School in Bong County, Liberia, marked a significant step towards expanding educational access in rural Liberia. Held on May 31, 2025, the event brought together community members, traditional leaders, and education advocates, all united by the shared vision of a brighter future for the region’s children. The $75,000 project, funded through the County Development Fund, represents a collaborative effort between national and local government, demonstrating a commitment to educational equity and rural development. The new school is poised to transform the educational landscape of Kolietawolah and its surrounding communities, offering hope and opportunity to hundreds of students who previously faced significant barriers to accessing education.
Senator Prince K. Moye and District #2 Representative James M. Kolleh, instrumental in securing the funding, emphasized the importance of community ownership and engagement in the project’s success. Their calls for collective responsibility resonated deeply with the residents of Kolietawolah, who have long awaited improved educational opportunities. Highlighting the transformative potential of the project, Senator Moye stressed that its success would serve as a model for other communities across Bong County, inspiring further investment in rural education. Representative Kolleh reinforced this message, underscoring the urgent need for accessible education to prevent children from abandoning their dreams due to geographical limitations.
D Sam Baryougah Elliott Sr., representing the Office of the County Superintendent, pledged the administration’s unwavering support for the timely and high-quality completion of the school. His assurance that the school would be ready to welcome students by the start of the new academic year in September injected a sense of urgency and optimism into the proceedings. Elliott’s commitment to creating a conducive learning environment, beyond just constructing a building, reflects a broader understanding of the multifaceted nature of educational development. The new school is not merely a physical structure but a symbol of hope, progress, and the transformative power of education.
The Kolietawolah Junior High School is expected to serve a significant number of students from the community and surrounding areas, many of whom currently endure long and arduous journeys to attend school. This new facility will significantly reduce the burden on these students, allowing them to dedicate more time and energy to their studies. Community leaders hailed the project as a monumental achievement in youth empowerment and educational inclusion, recognizing its potential to unlock the potential of the next generation. Mary Yarkpawolo, a local elder representing the town’s traditional council, eloquently expressed the community’s gratitude, acknowledging the lawmakers and county officials for finally bringing “light” to the children of Kolietawolah. Her words captured the profound sense of hope and relief felt by the community, as years of educational hardship finally gave way to the promise of a brighter future.
The project’s commitment to prioritizing local labor in the construction process underscores its holistic approach to community development. By providing employment opportunities for local residents, the project not only boosts community involvement but also stimulates the local economy. This dual benefit further strengthens the sense of ownership and pride within Kolietawolah, creating a virtuous cycle of development and empowerment. The construction crews are set to commence work immediately, ensuring that the project remains on track to meet its ambitious completion deadline. The rapid mobilization of resources reflects the urgency and importance attached to this transformative initiative.
The Kolietawolah Junior High School project represents a critical investment in Liberia’s future. As the nation continues its post-war reconstruction efforts, prioritizing education, particularly in underserved rural communities, is essential for achieving sustainable national progress. This groundbreaking ceremony signifies not only the construction of a school but also the building of a stronger, more equitable future for Liberia. It serves as a testament to the power of collaboration, community engagement, and the unwavering belief in the transformative potential of education. The project’s success will undoubtedly inspire similar initiatives across the country, contributing to a broader movement towards educational inclusion and national development.
