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Residents of Gbanworia Village, a remote community in Kono District, have appealed for urgent support to address the poor state of education infrastructure in the area, following revelations about the deplorable condition of the village’s only school.
The situation came to public attention through a social media discussion on the state of schools across the country, during which concerns were raised about the neglected community. Further inquiries confirmed that Gbanworia Village is located more than 50 miles from Koidu City and has long struggled with access to basic educational facilities.
A fact-finding visit to the village revealed that the existing “school” is a makeshift and unsafe structure, lacking proper classrooms, trained teachers, clean drinking water, and toilet facilities. Despite these challenges, children in the community reportedly show strong interest and determination to pursue education.
In response to the dire conditions, education advocate, Hawawa, previously provided learning materials, including books, blackboards, and about 200 school bags, offering temporary relief to pupils. However, residents say the intervention highlighted the scale of the problem rather than resolving it.
The lack of infrastructure has had serious consequences for the community. No child from Gbanworia Village has ever sat the National Primary School Examination (NPSE). Recently, arrangements were made for 10 pupils – seven girls and three boys – to travel to neighbouring villages to sit the exam.
Community leaders say the absence of a functioning school has contributed to early marriages and teenage pregnancies among girls, while many boys are pushed into mining and farming to support their families.
Local residents, with support from Hawawa, are now calling for assistance to construct a six-classroom primary school with two staff rooms, toilet facilities, and access to clean water.
The community has already donated one acre of land and received initial construction materials to begin the project, but significant resources are still required to complete it.
Residents are appealing to individuals, organizations, and development partners to support the initiative, emphasizing that improved educational facilities would offer children in Gbanworia Village a chance for a better future.
Those interested in providing support or seeking further information have been encouraged to contact Hawawa directly vai Facebook Messenger or by calling +23278279800.
