Africa-Press – Liberia. Rev. Varney Freeman, Founder and Proprietor of the Betty Memorial Institute (BMI) in Tewor Town, Mendemasa Clan, Tewor District, Grand Cape Mount County, has made a passionate appeal for an annual financial subsidy to support his institution. The school, which accommodates both male and female students, provides vocational education alongside traditional academics for students from Grade 7 to 12 at affordable fees.
The Betty Memorial Institute is the only faith-based institution in Cape Mount County offering vocational training, with courses in electricity, agriculture, tailoring, pastry, catering, soap-making, and general mechanics. Rev. Freeman attributes the high rate of joblessness among Liberian youth to a lack of practical skills and sees vocational education as a key solution.
He emphasized that government and partner support through an annual subsidy would help the school improve its programs, reduce costs for parents, and expand opportunities for students. The BMI is also collaborating with “Vocational Education Support Africa (VESA),” a U.S.-based organization, to enhance vocational skills training and provide financial support for teachers.
Founded in 2008 and officially dedicated on October 20, 2010, BMI hosts an annual capstone program for Grade 12 students, allowing them to showcase projects that address local community needs. For the 2024-2025 academic year, two student groups presented innovative projects. Group “Muibanimaa” (“We Have Done It”) focused on tailoring and designing African slippers, while Group “Mutaja” (“Let’s Forge Ahead”) developed a cassava grinder. These projects aim to reduce travel costs and provide affordable solutions for local communities.
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including Tewor District Education Officer Lahai I. N. Konneh, who praised the students’ performance and promised to relay Rev. Freeman’s request for support to higher education authorities. Mr. Varney Vaikai Rogers, representing Tewor District Commissioner Aaron B. Sambola, also stressed the need for increased support from county authorities, businesses, and the national government.
Rev. Freeman highlighted that BMI equips Liberian children with both academic knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for productive lives and further education. During the ceremony, he and his wife, Mrs. Queeta D. Freeman, Principal of the school, recognized a committed single mother for timely payment of her daughter’s fees and honored several disciplined and hardworking students.
For More News And Analysis About Liberia Follow Africa-Press
