By Christian Appleton
Garr Benne, Nimba County – May 27, 2025 – A few months after a distressing report highlighted that students at Garr Benne Public School in Electoral District #2, Nimba County, were compelled to sit on bare floors due due to a severe lack of classroom furniture, a commendable act of community generosity has brought much-needed relief to the rural institution. This heartwarming intervention, however, unfolds against a backdrop of administrative backlash against those who initially brought the dire conditions to light.
The initial media report, which vividly exposed the challenging learning environment faced by school-going children, was unfortunately perceived by some district officials and their supporters not as a constructive call to action, but as a form of opposition or criticism. In a troubling turn of events following the media exposure, the school’s principal, Mr. Alfred S. Keah, was suspended by the District Education Officer, Mr. Sei Kehzie, and the County Education Officer, Hon. Francis G. Leagay IV. His alleged offense was granting an interview to journalists about the school’s deplorable state.
Critics have pointed out the bitter irony of education officials, whose primary mandate is to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment, seemingly silencing efforts to draw attention to poor conditions. Accusations of neglect have been leveled against them, with many highlighting the stark contrast between the dust-covered students in rural areas and the privileged education often enjoyed by the officials’ own children.
Despite this administrative setback, a renewed sense of hope dawned on Garr Benne on May 27, 2025, when dedicated community members, led by Lincoln P. Nyakpoar, delivered 11 brand new benches to the school. This significant donation will now provide a measure of dignity and much-needed comfort to the students. The gesture was particularly symbolic due to the presence of the suspended principal, Mr. Keah, who, even in suspension, continues to advocate passionately for the welfare of his students.
Of the 11 benches, nine were generously donated by journalist Garmah Lomo of News Public Trust, who made the contribution in honor of her birthday, demonstrating a personal commitment to the cause. The remaining two benches were contributed by community activists Archie Sei Bob Yini and Lincoln P. Nyakpoar themselves, exemplifying grassroots initiative.
“This is a small step, but a meaningful one,” Mr. Yini shared on Facebook, underscoring the significance of the donation. “Hopefully, District Representative Hon. Nyah G. Flomo sees this endeavor and understands why we raise concerns about development. We don’t want to be questioned tomorrow when we speak up, as was the case with journalist Prince Y. Gbozuah.”
Mr. Yini further highlighted the persistent challenges faced by the school, even with the new additions. “Almost all the teachers here are volunteers, receiving no salary. Yet officials like Francis G. Leagay and Mr. Kehzie want them to pretend everything is fine,” he lamented. He firmly added, “Even if they suspend all the teachers, we will not stop advocating for our people.”
Thanks to continued support from benevolent friends and concerned citizens, Mr. Yini announced that Garr Benne Public School is poised to receive an additional 50 benches in the coming weeks, promising further relief. Furthermore, plans are also in motion to provide stipends for some of the dedicated volunteer teachers, as the group actively seeks further support from humanitarians and the general public.
“God knows our hearts,” remarked journalist Garmah Lomo, encapsulating the spirit of altruism. “Let’s keep doing our little where necessary. The little we do matters.”
The school administration and students, overwhelmed with joy and appreciation, expressed their profound gratitude for the support, describing it as a lifeline in the midst of persistent neglect and adversity. As these grassroots efforts continue to bridge the glaring gap left by public authorities, the situation at Garr Benne Public School stands as both a sobering reality of rural education in Liberia and a powerful testament to the transformative potential of community-driven change.
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