By Moses J. Dawoe
-Maryland (freelance)
Gbloken, Maryland County A $50,000 school construction project initiated by the Liberian government has reportedly been abandoned, leaving the community in dire need of intervention.
The Chairperson of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) of the Gbloken Public School, Joseph Hoto, has called on the government to address the situation, which he described as a major setback for the local community.
Gbloken is a community in rural Maryland on the Harper-to-Pleebo Highway, about 7 kilometers from Pleebo City, Maryland’s commercial capital.
Speaking to journalists during an exclusive interview on Sunday, November 24, 2024, Mr. Hoto revealed that the construction of the six-classroom school began under the administration of former President George M. Weah in June 2023.
However, the project has since been neglected, leaving children in the area to struggle with inadequate and deteriorating facilities.
“The current condition of the school is deplorable,” Mr. Hoto stated; “We urgently need the government and humanitarian organizations to assist the community.”
He also urged the administration of President Joseph Boakai to prioritize the completion of the project, which he believes will significantly improve education in the area.
According to Mr. Hoto, children attending the community school face numerous challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, dusty floors, and a lack of proper facilities.
“These conditions have discouraged many school-aged children from attending school,” he noted.
Mr. Hoto further disclosed that the project was valued at US$50,000 as confirmed by Maryland County’s former Development Superintendent, Mr. Robin Scott.
The contract for the construction was awarded to a local firm, which began work without receiving any initial payment from the government.
The firm reportedly expected to be compensated during the construction process but has yet to receive any funds, forcing the project to stall.
“This is a major blow to our community,” Mr. Hoto said, emphasizing the need for immediate government action.
The abandonment of the project has raised concerns among residents, who fear the continued delay will deprive their children of access to quality education.
They are appealing to authorities to ensure the project is completed and the local children’s futures are safeguarded.
