Liberia: Chinese Gov’t Turns Over US$70K School to GOL in Maryland
Ruben Scott, Maryland County Development Superintendent and Chinese Ambassador Ren Yisheng, signed documents during the ceremony to turn over the newly constructed Tobeville Primary School
— Commits to supporting Liberia’s education sector
The Chinese Government, through its Embassy near Monrovia, has turned over a modern school, Tobeville Primary School, worth US$70,000 to the local authorities of Maryland County. The school is located in District #1 of that southeastern county.
The Chinese government also recommitted itself to supporting the education sector through the provision of office equipment, as well as chairs and other learning materials.
The Chinese Ambassador, Ren Yisheng, made the commitment when he spoke at the symbolic dedication and handover ceremony of the school, held at the Chinese Embassy on Friday, January 27. He described education as the surest way to foster development for future generations, and, as such, China will continue to be a good friend to Liberia.
The Chinese Diplomat informed the audience that the Tobeville Primary School was a gift from the Chinese government and people and was built by CHICO, a Chinese construction company in Liberia.
However, the school comprises five classrooms, including an administrative office, and is expected to accommodate approximately 100 students. “The Chinese government is working towards the improvement of Liberia’s infrastructural development.”
Ambassador Ren added that education is the foundation of development, stability, and peace and that, therefore, China remains committed to improving Liberia’s educational sector.
He further recalled the construction of two planned overhead bridges in Monrovia, the diagnostic and treatment lab at the 14 Military Hospital, and the fingerprint examination lab for the police as some of China’s contributions to Liberia over the years
Amb. Ren also revealed that discussions are underway between the governments of Liberia and China for the construction of a road and bridge linking Sinkor and Somalia Drive and the Liberia Broadcasting System media complex.
He clarified that most of the projects have not been as swift as anticipated due to the Coronavirus pandemic. “China is doing everything possible to accelerate the projects, along with technical assistance,” he added.
Meanwhile, Maryland County District #1 Representative P. Mike Jurry has described the newly constructed primary school as a dream come true for the people of the county. He thanked the government of the People's Republic of China for their continuous support of the educational system of Liberia.
Jurry noted that over the years, kids in the Tobeville area have not had any opportunity to acquire a quality education due to a lack of educational infrastructure.
The Maryland County Lawmaker added that the construction of the school will enhance the capacity of school-going kids and promote academic excellence and equity in the educational system of the county.
He also described the construction of the modern school as a golden opportunity for extremely vulnerable children who traveled long distances to acquire an education.
Rep. Jurry assured the Chinese government of the people of Maryland County's commitment to, appreciation for, and protection of the educational facility.
“The improvement of the educational system of Liberia no longer rests on the shoulders of the government alone, but also on local and international partners.”
The construction of the Tobeville Primary School was the result of an appeal by Rep. Jurry to Amb. Ren, which underscored the importance of such a facility in the district.
The Tobeville Primary School is one of the schools in the remote parts of District #1, Maryland County.