By: Frank P. Martin
MONROVIA: River Gee County Senator, Francis Saidy Dopoh, has made a significant impact on education by offering several scholarships and financial aid to students from his constituency.
The initiative includes three international scholarships for studies in Rwanda and over 100 local financial aid packages for students attending institutions in Liberia.
On Sunday, September 8, 2024, at a farewell program held at C’est La Vie Lodge in Brewerville, Senator Dopoh announced the departure of Prisca W. Wah, Odelnier C. Weay, and Daniel J. Y. Tarsleh, who will be pursuing Bachelor of Science degrees in Land Surveying in Rwanda, fully sponsored by him (Dopoh).
The Senator revealed that the selection process for these scholarships was highly competitive.
“We submitted seven names to the university, and three were successful. It is worth noting that one of the selected students is a female, ensuring a gender-sensitive approach in our selection,” he explained.
Dopoh emphasized his vision for an educated and informed River Gee County, which he believes is crucial for resolving long-standing land disputes.
He stated: “We have struggled with land disputes, especially in areas like Chedepo and Gbeapo. We need to address these issues with a clear and modern approach. By sending these students to study Land Surveying, we hope they will return to assist in resolving these conflicts and contribute to their community.”
In addition to sponsoring the students in Rwanda, Dopoh provided over 100 scholarships and financial aid packages to students at Tubman University, Africa Methodist Episcopal Zion University, Africa Methodist Episcopal University, United Methodist University, and Stella Maris Polytechnic University.
These scholarships aim to alleviate the financial burdens on students and ensure they can pursue their educational goals without monetary constraints.
“To our international students, we have covered all expenses for your studies in Rwanda. However, family and friends are encouraged to support you in any way they can,” Dopoh stated during the distribution of plane tickets.
Senator Dopoh’s initiative is part of a broader commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and access in the region.
By addressing financial barriers, he aims to empower the next generation of Liberian leaders and professionals.
The President of the River Gee University Student Union, Benson B. Kamah, praised the Senator for his dedication and expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided.
“We are extremely grateful for this gesture. It is the first time in my tenure as president that we are witnessing such an opportunity for our students. I urge all students to remain focused on their studies and contribute to the development of River Gee County and Liberia,” he urged
Kamah emphasized that there are many more students from River Gee with similar aspirations, and he urged the selected students to represent their community with pride and dedication.
Senator Dopoh’s efforts not only reflect his personal commitment to education but also represent a significant investment in the future of River Gee County and Liberia.
Through these scholarships and financial aids, Dopoh is playing a vital role in shaping the educational landscape and supporting the aspirations of aspiring students of the River Gee University Student Union.
