IPNEWS: Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has officially re-launched the Domestic Scholarship Program of 424 successful applicants of university students, a key initiative aimed at providing educational opportunities to Liberian students and enhancing their educational journeys.
Speaking at the ceremony on Saturday, December 7, 2024, the Liberian leader stressed the importance of inclusion, considering the difficulties parents faced during the civil crisis and their continued challenges in supporting their children’s education.
According to him, the program, overseen by the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs, also seeks to enhance access to higher and quality education, provide financial aid for underprivileged students who wish to pursue their education but are held back by financial constraints, and to support the government’s ARREST Agenda through academic empowerment.
The president further emphasized that the youth are the future of the nation. If Liberia is to progress, the youth must be empowered. With this opportunity, recipients need to give back to society. I am excited by the students’ projects presented here today.
“Our gathering here is not about political affiliation. This process is not about the UP or CDC; it is about Liberia. No matter where you are from or who you are, there should be no discrimination because our priority is to empower the youth of this country he noted.
It can be recalled that the vetting process began months ago, during which approximately 700 applications were received from various universities. After a transparent vetting, about 455 applicants were shortlisted and invited to an information session at the EJS Ministerial Complex. A total of 424 successfully participated making them eligible for this bash.
President Boakai further disclosed that, during the information session, students were asked to present a comprehensive project plan identifying problems in their communities and schools. This allowed them to work on these issues as a way of giving back to society and presenting their ideas before the program’s official launch.
Students were grouped into ten teams to discuss potential projects they could undertake to help mentor others.
“Interestingly I am leaving this hall today with great excitement, carrying the mindset that young people may not know everything. However, what has been displayed here today by these young minds indicates that the future is bright, and Liberia will become the best country we all envision.”
A total of one hundred and fifty thousand dollars was initially allocated, but this amount has now increased due to the importance attached to the program, as well as support from potential partners, donors, guests, and nongovernmental organizations, among others.
Meanwhile, The president concluded by urging students to remain focused and study hard to maintain the required GPA as scholars.
