Summer 2023 Project Update

The official groundbreaking ceremony of the Liberian Learning Center took place in Paynesville, Liberia, on the grounds of Paynesville City Hall in October 2019. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly interrupted further development of the Centre for a short period. However, the resilience of the community and partners enabled our team to resume work on the ground, following the COVID-19 health and safety protocols of the local government.

By mid 2021, the project team began construction on the foundation for Phase 1 (the first building of the Center), which was built in accordance with engineering standards and values of sustainability. As of Summer 2023, a significant amount of work has been completed, including structural framing, reinforcement of concrete columns, roof framing, beams and members, and masonry units.

Phase 1 Construction Update:

Columns

Reinforcement Steel Fabrication & Installations – COMPLETED

Formwork Fabrication & Installations – COMPLETED

Concrete Casting – COMPLETED

Roof Beams

Reinforcement Steel Fabrication & Installations – COMPLETED

Formwork Fabrication & Installations – COMPLETED

Concrete Casting – COMPLETED

Roofing

Roof Framing – COMPLETED

Roof Coverings – 15%

Blockworks

External Block works (Bricks) – Prepping

Internal Blockworks (CMU Block walls) – Prepping

Activities Timeline

December 2023
Phase 1 building will be enclosed with a roof

December 2024
Phase 1 building will be completed and furnished

2025
Renovation of the existing conference center and offices will be completed (Phase 2)

FINANCIAL NEEDS

Total budget for the Center (phase 1, 2 and 3) is approximately 2M CAD. The budget for phase 1 is about 1M CAD. We are deeply grateful for the generous contributions of supporters like you that enable us to secure $700,000 to build the Center. Currently, we need to raise $300,000 to complete phase one so that it can be fully operational. Additionally, we need to raise 1M to complete phases 2 and 3 of the project.

UPCOMING CELEBRATION

Empowerment Squared is planning an event to celebrate the completion of phase 1 as well as to leverage the opportunity to raise funds for the ongoing development of the Center. This event will take place on February 23, 2024 in Liberia. Our Canadian and Liberian board members, staff, supporters, donors, partners, and community members are invited to celebrate this significant achievement.