By: Bryan Dioh |Maryland County Correspondent
Harper, Maryland County –Saturday, June 14, 2025- More than 837 students at the Harper Demonstration Junior and Senior High School are currently learning under dangerous and deteriorating conditions due to the dilapidated state of the school’s building.
The structure, which has reportedly been de-roofed by storms and strong winds over the years, now resembles a makeshift shelter. Students and staff are currently exposed to the open air, particularly during the ongoing rainy season, making the pursuit of quality education an unwelcome sight and daily struggle.
Speaking to reporters, Principal Emmanuel Dennis expressed deep concern over the hazardous condition of the facility. He revealed that the school has been in such a state since he assumed leadership and despite minor renovations carried out over time, financial constraints have stalled more comprehensive work.
“We’ve tried what we can with the little support we get, but the condition is worsening. The building is a serious risk to our students and teachers,” said Dennis. “During the rainy season, water floods the classrooms. We cannot even hold regular sessions because the place becomes unsafe. We’ve informed the local authorities of the Ministry of Education, but there has been no tangible response.”
He acknowledged that while some philanthropic groups, including the Dorboh Bedell Foundation, have shown interest in assisting, the school is yet to receive support and the rainy season has already begun.
The Harper Demonstration School, situated in the heart of Harper City, has a long-standing reputation for producing distinguished public servants and leaders in Liberia. However, the current state of its infrastructure paints a bleak picture for the future.
Local residents have expressed their frustration and dismay over the neglect. “I am shocked. This school has produced important people in our country. How can it be left to rot while our children sit here every day? It’s heartbreaking,” lamented Tete Togba, a resident of Central Harper.
Another resident, Francis Koffa, described the school building as a “death trap,” calling for urgent intervention. “This is a shame – not just on the school administration but on the government and the Ministry of Education. We can’t keep sending our children here and pretend everything is normal,” he said.
When contacted, the newly appointed County Education Officer, Mr. Larry Nimely, acknowledged the problem and stated that plans are underway for renovation. However, he did not specify a timeline as to when the rehabilitation work would begin.
As the rainy season intensifies, the future of hundreds of students at the Harper Demonstration School presently hangs in the balance. Parents and stakeholders are now calling on government authorities, past alumni, and development partners to prioritize the safety and education of Liberia’s future generation.
Edited: Jesefu Morris Keita| Editor-In-Chief
