MARYLAND COUNTY, Liberia, November 3, 2026: Manolu Public Junior High School in Maryland County Electoral District #3 is struggling with inadequate classroom furniture, limited teaching materials and insufficient operational funding, prompting an appeal for government intervention to improve learning conditions for its 500 students.
The school’s principal, J. Chelleh Thompson, said shortages of chairs, desks and essential instructional materials continue to undermine effective teaching and learning at the institution.
Speaking in an interview, Thompson explained that the government’s free education policy, while easing the financial burden on parents, has left the school with limited resources to cover basic operational expenses.
He disclosed that the administration previously relied on school-generated revenue to purchase chalk and other teaching materials but can no longer adequately meet those needs without additional financial support.
Thompson called on the Ministry of Education, elected officials and community stakeholders to intervene by providing furniture, instructional supplies and other essential resources.
The principal also expressed concern over students attending classes without uniforms despite a one-month grace period granted to parents to purchase the required clothing.
While acknowledging the financial difficulties facing some families, he said the situation presents challenges for school administration and student identification.
Meanwhile, Thompson commended President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for an initiative through which the school reportedly received clothing and footwear for some students, as well as assistance for teachers.
He appealed for continued support, particularly for students from economically disadvantaged families.
The principal further called on Maryland County Senator J. Gblehbo Brown to assist the institution in addressing its infrastructural and material needs.
According to Thompson, discussions concerning support for the school have resulted in commitments, but some anticipated assistance has yet to materialize.
He attributed some of the delays to misunderstandings within the community and coordination challenges among stakeholders.
Thompson emphasized that providing free education without adequate classroom facilities, teaching materials and operational resources could undermine the quality of education.
He urged government authorities, lawmakers, parents and community leaders to work together to address the school’s challenges and provide a conducive learning environment for its 500 students.
Meanwhile, efforts by The New Dawn to contact the District Education Officer for comments on the school’s situation proved unsuccessful.
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