Paynesville, Liberia – The Jahzjet Children Outreach Mission School, situated in the ELWA-Rehab Community, is urgently seeking assistance after a catastrophic fire severely impacted its facilities on January 4. The blaze, which began in the early evening, has left the school community grappling with significant losses, including the destruction of essential educational resources.
By: Patience M. Jones, Contributing Writer
In an interview on Saturday, Mrs. Edwina Zeon Kamara, daughter of the school’s founder, expressed her deep sorrow over the incident. “It’s heartbreaking to witness the destruction of a place that holds so many memories for our family and the community,” she stated. The fire reportedly originated from a neighboring property and quickly spread to the school grounds, engulfing her mother’s residence, which housed 13 individuals, including five boys and seven girls.
Despite a prompt call to the Liberia National Fire Service, the damage was extensive by the time help arrived. Fortunately, neighbors intervened, preventing the flames from consuming the school buildings, but the loss of her mother’s home has left many homeless. Currently, the displaced residents are taking refuge in various classrooms.
“This incident has been a significant setback for both our family and the institution,” Mrs. Kamara lamented. “We lost not only our home but also vital school supplies, including computers, printers, and sound systems. Four staff members, along with the principal, also lost their belongings, adding to the emotional toll.”
The school reopened recently, but the community’s resilience is being tested as students and faculty band together to continue classes amid the challenges. Mrs. Kamara highlighted the solidarity shown by the students, who are sympathetic to their plight and are determined to keep educational activities ongoing.
In light of the disaster, the school is appealing to government officials, NGOs, and goodwill ambassadors for financial and material support. So far, only Montserrado County Electoral District # 6 Representative Samuel Enders has stepped forward, providing food assistance, but the institution requires more comprehensive aid. “We are reaching out for help to renovate or construct a new building. Our students deserve a safe and secure learning environment,” she emphasized.
The Jahzjet Children Outreach Mission School, founded on March 1, 1987, by the late Mr. Jefferson A. Zeon Sr., has served the community for 38 years. The school has a rich history of supporting underprivileged children through scholarships and educational programs. Presently, it supports around 600 students, including those in need through the St. Jefferson A. Zeon Sr. Memorial program.
“We are committed to continuing my father’s legacy of charitable initiatives, and we are open to any contributions that can help us rebuild,” Mrs. Kamara stated. “It’s crucial that we rally together to ensure the success of our students this semester.”
With a strong history of community service and educational support, Jahzjet stands as one of the oldest institutions in Montserrado County Electoral District #6, and its future now rests in the hands of those willing to lend their support during this challenging time.
For those who would like to offer support, please contact the school administration at +231770322510, +231886257208 or email [email protected].