YOKOPA, Nimba County, Nov. 13 -- Residents of Yokopa and neighboring rail communities in Nimba County have welcomed the construction of a modern seven-classroom school building, describing it as a major step toward improving access to education for children in the area.

Located near Duo and along ArcelorMittal Liberia's (AML) rail corridor, Yokopa has struggled for years with inadequate educational facilities. The community's existing wooden-plank structure accommodates 165 kindergarten and elementary pupils but is plagued by overcrowding and a shortage of seating. Some children are forced to sit on the bare ground during lessons or bring benches from home.

The new school, which began construction in July last year, is the first direct ...