By: Edmund C. Gbarwee, Nimba D-9 TV, ceo@onenimbahouse.com +231778070604
Zekepa, Liberia – November 9, 2024 – As the sun rose over the horizon, casting its golden glow across Zekepa, the community gathered to witness a momentous occasion at Zekeh Memorial High School. Five students, including the first female graduate in years, proudly walked across the stage at the school’s graduation ceremony, marking a turning point for the institution and the surrounding region.
Under the visionary leadership of Principal Evan Kolleh, and with the dedicated oversight of Yarwin Mehnsonnoh Education District’s Director, Micheal Goyee, Zekeh Memorial High School celebrated the graduation of its 12th graders in a ceremony filled with hope and inspiration. The event, held on November 9, 2024, drew an enthusiastic crowd of parents, stakeholders, citizens, and educators, all coming together to celebrate the resilience and progress of the school and its students.
A Message of Hope and Determination
The keynote address was delivered by Presley Gwaikolo, a distinguished son of Nimba County Electoral District Nine and a former student of Zekeh Memorial High School. Known affectionately as PK Gwaikolo, he used his platform to inspire the graduates, urging them to view obstacles not as barriers, but as opportunities for growth. He reminded the young graduates that their journey was just beginning and that they must continue to strive for excellence, not only for themselves but for the future of education in their community.
Overcoming Challenges and Defying Expectations
Zekeh Memorial High School’s journey to this historic graduation has not been without its challenges. For years, the school struggled with poor academic results, with graduates repeatedly failing the National Examinations. At one point, the education sector even considered downgrading the school from offering 12th-grade classes to a 9th-grade level. However, thanks to the unwavering support of local stakeholders, including the late Representative Prof. Johnson N. Gwaikolo, who initiated scholarships for students from 10th to 12th grade and provided much-needed resources to volunteer teachers, the school has defied the odds.
“The efforts of Prof. Gwaikolo and other dedicated individuals have finally borne fruit”. Today, we stand here, proud of our graduates and hopeful for the future. This is just the beginning.” said Presley Gwaikolo.
A Bright Future Ahead
The successful graduation of these five students is a testament to the hard work and commitment of both the school and the community. Currently, there are seven 12th graders at the school, with more expected to follow in the coming years. The attendance is rising, and the overall morale of both students and teachers is at an all-time high.
In a further boost to the school’s development, Representative Taa Z. Wongbe has partnered with Teach Liberia to provide capacity building for the education sector of the district. Additionally, a female instructor, sent through Teach Liberia, has been assigned to Zekeh Memorial High School, while a male instructor has been assigned to Varmie Memorial High School in Graire. There is also a Nigerian educator, assigned by the Government of Liberia, contributing to the school’s growth.
A Community United for Education
The education sector in Yarwin Mehnsonnoh Statutory District is clearly on the rise. Under the dedicated leadership of DEO Micheal Goyee, there is a renewed focus on ensuring that every school-going child is enrolled and receives quality education. The district has instituted strong regulations, with parents, and teachers now held accountable for school attendance, and penalties for those who do not comply.
As the ceremony concluded, the air was filled with excitement for what the future holds. The students, emboldened by the support of their community, are determined to raise the bar even higher in the years to come.
The sunrise over Zekepa symbolizes a new era for education in the region one where challenges are met with determination, and every student is empowered to shine.
