LOFA COUNTY, LIBERIA-Education Minister Dr. Jarso Jallah has termed the Liberian government’s investment in education as a demonstration of its commitment to expanding opportunities for underserved communities.

Minister Jallah made the statement over the weekend when she dedicated Liberia’s first public senior high school in Barkedu, Quardu Gboni District, Lofa County.

According to her, the new school will enable students to complete secondary education locally, reducing the burden of travelling long distances for further schooling.

The Ministry of Education boss distributed learning materials, including book bags, pencils, copybooks and hygiene kits for both boys and girls at the school.

Dr. Jallah further renewed calls for stronger literacy efforts, saying the country’s literacy rate remains a concern that requires sustained national action.

The Minister of Local Government, Francis Nyumalin, said:” The government is intensifying efforts to address the longstanding education gap in Quardu Gboni District, Lofa County”.

He said:” President Joseph Boakai has prioritized addressing educational challenges in Quardu Gboni and directed local authorities to ensure children attend school during regular hours”.

The Local Government Minister urged traditional leaders to fully implement the composite education policy and prevent parents from sending school-age children to farms during school hours.

Minister Nyumalin also said the government is working with the University of Lofa to expand higher education opportunities, including plans to extend programs to additional districts.