A thorough investigation by Verity News has uncovered troubling conditions at Gbenwein Public School, a government school in Marshall Township that serves several surrounding communities and now stands at the brink of collapse.
The school has been operated for years by ten (10) volunteer teachers who, despite serving in the classroom for more than a decade in some cases, have never been placed on the government payroll.
Gbenwein Public School in Monclay Town, Marshall Education District, Lower Margibi County, survives not because it is adequately supported, but because it is held together by the unwavering sacrifice of these educators. Their commitment continues to be the backbone of the institution.
Since its founding in 2007, Gbenwein Public School has relied almost entirely on volunteer instructors to keep its academic program functional. Many teach essential subjects in both the junior and senior high divisions.
Yet, despite their qualifications, proven dedication, and long years of service, none of these teachers has been placed on the government payroll in recent years. Their contribution is driven solely by passion for education and a deep sense of responsibility to their community.
These teachers ensure daily instruction, mentor hundreds of students, supervise academic and extracurricular activities, and hold the school together. Among them are:
Marino K. James, Geography/Vocabulary (2011–present)
Abraham A. Johnson, Geography (2009–present)
James F. Fallah, History/Civics (2014–present)
Abraham T. Nehmon, Chemistry/Biology (2019–present)
They are joined by several others who continue to sustain learning from grades 3 through 12. Despite their dedication, the absence of compensation has created growing emotional and financial strain for these teachers and their families.
Severe Infrastructure Challenges
While these volunteers work tirelessly, the school itself is battling major infrastructural deficiencies that undermine effective teaching and learning. The challenges include:
No auditorium for assemblies, programs, or student gatherings
Insufficient chairs, leaving many students seated on shared benches or forced to stand
No library, limiting research, reading culture, and academic development
No canteen or staff room for teachers to meet or prepare lessons
A deteriorating building in urgent need of renovation
The school possesses a valid deed, issued during the administration of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in 2007, yet continues to lack basic facilities needed for quality education.
Still, learning goes on-held up by the determination of teachers and the resilience of students.
A Formal Appeal to Hon. Roland Opee Cooper
In search of relief and long-overdue recognition, the school’s administration and community representatives have formally appealed to Hon. Roland Opee Cooper, Representative of District #1, Margibi County.
Their letter acknowledges Hon. Cooper’s commitment to education and community development, and calls for his immediate intervention. Specifically, they request that he:
Investigate administrative or policy barriers preventing the teachers’ regularization.
Advocate for their placement on the national payroll system.
Pursue legislative or administrative remedies to ensure their service is formally recognized and compensated.
The appeal stresses that placing these teachers on government payroll is not just a matter of fairness; it is a strategic investment in the stability and future of education in the district.
Hope for a Better Future
Despite overwhelming challenges, hope remains alive at Gbenwein Public School. Every morning, teachers arrive with determination, students come eager to learn, and the community continues to stand firmly behind them.
What they lack in resources, they compensate for with resilience and an unwavering spirit.
All eyes are now on Hon. Cooper, as the community awaits a positive response, one which could finally bring justice, relief, and recognition to the educators who have sustained Gbenwein Public School through years of unpaid service.
For a school built on sacrifice, the hope is that change will come soon, creating a safer and more supportive learning environment for every child.
