In a milestone for education in Grand Gedeh County, the Wild Chimpanzee Foundation (WCF), in partnership with the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), officially dedicated a fully renovated primary school building over the weekend in Barwu Town, Konobo Statutory District.
The upgraded facility features six modern classrooms, replacing the dilapidated structure that has stood since 1960. Local authorities and community members lauded the initiative, describing it as a long-overdue investment in the future of Barwu Town’s children.
Primarily a non-profit dedicated to the protection of wild chimpanzees and their habitats across West Africa, the WCF has extended its mission to include community support through education, infrastructure, and research initiatives. The organization’s holistic approach balances wildlife conservation with direct benefits for local populations.
Superintendent of Konobo Statutory District, Mr. Moses Cheawulu, emphasized the urgency of the renovation.
“This school, established in 1960, has been in a shameful state for decades,” he said. “Seeing our children learn in such conditions has been a heavy burden on the community.”
He praised the collaboration between WCF and FDA, describing it as “farsighted” and capable of delivering long-term solutions for the district.
Principal Sees ‘Generational Transformation’
The dedication ceremony drew officials from FDA, WCF, local government, traditional leaders, parents, guardians, and enthusiastic students.
Principal James T. Saydee expressed heartfelt gratitude for the project, highlighting the new facility’s potential to transform the lives of future generations. However, he raised concerns about teacher salaries, warning that the school’s continued operation depends on sustainable government support.
Dr. Annika Hillers, Country Representative of the WCF, praised the community’s cooperation and affirmed the foundation’s commitment to supporting local development where possible.
“The Ministry of Education is responsible for paying teachers,” she noted, adding that while WCF cannot assume the government’s duties, it will continue to advocate for support and expand projects in partnership with donors such as the European Union.
The renovated Barwu Town Primary School stands as a symbol of hope, demonstrating the power of partnerships between conservation organizations and rural communities to foster meaningful development.
