The First Lady of Liberia, Kartumu Yarta Boakai, dedicated the renovated Joseph G.N. Gbadyu Public School in Neekreen Township, Grand Bassa County on October 18, 2024. The ceremony highlighted the ARREST Agenda and the government's commitment to education and child welfare as key aspects of national development.
Addressing students, educators, local leaders, and members of the Bassa Legislative Caucus, Mrs. Boakai emphasized the transformative power of education. She praised Madam Linda Karim Creevey for her significant contribution to the renovation project, calling it a "remarkable achievement" and an act of "profound humanitarianism."
“Madam Creevey has shown us that love knows no borders, and her commitment to the future of our children is a true demonstration of the spirit of humanitarianism,” said Mrs. Boakai. “This school, once in ruins, has been refurbished into a safe and nurturing environment where young minds can grow.”
Mrs. Boakai also announced a new school feeding program aimed at improving student health and attentiveness. She stressed the importance of maintaining this program's sustainability and integrity to transform Liberia’s educational landscape.
Encouraging children to dream big, she stated: “The future belongs to those who believe in the power of their dreams.” She pledged ongoing support for schools and emphasized that children are “not just Liberia’s future—they are Liberia’s now.”
To further aid the school, Mrs. Boakai's office donated educational materials including ten bags of rice, sanitary pads for female students, book bags, and USD 2,000 for additional supplies.
Madam Creevey funded the school's renovation with support from her husband. The project cost approximately USD 22,000 and involved both local and foreign expertise. She expressed gratitude towards Mrs. Boakai for attending the ceremony and reiterated her commitment to Liberian children's education through partnerships with the Boakai Administration.
Madam Nyonblee Kangar Lawrence, President Pro-Tempore of the Liberian Senate, thanked Madam Creevey for her contributions and committed to raising the school's standards. She urged upgrading it to junior high status due to its longstanding significance in the region.
This event marks a significant step forward for Joseph G.N. Gbadyu Public School and highlights collective efforts to enhance education in Neekreen Township.