By: Frank P. Martin
MONROVIA: In a move that underscores his administration’s commitment to empowering Liberia’s youth, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has officially re-launched the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs Domestic Scholarship Program of 424 successful applicants of university students.
The highly anticipated ceremony, held at the SKD Sports Complex on December 7, 2024, marks a step towards addressing the nation’s educational crisis and providing opportunities for hundreds of deserving students across Liberia.
“We are launching the program for you the young People of this nation who are the future,” the President Boakai told a soaring crowd of students.
Speaking to a packed audience of government officials, educators, and eager young students, President Boakai described the program as a cornerstone of his administration’s vision for a brighter future.
“Education is the foundation upon which we will rebuild this nation. This scholarship program is not just an initiative—it is a lifeline for our young people to think, love, and build Liberia,” he said, his voice resonating with determination.
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.
“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.
The 424 applicants selection followed a vetting process 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 urged Liberian youth to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the scholarship program. “This is your moment to step up, to equip yourselves with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead this nation. We can only progress as a country if we invest in you—the future leaders of Liberia,” he stated.
The Liberian Leader further disclosed that, during the information session, students were asked to present a comprehensive project plan identifying problem 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 indicate that the future is bright, and Liberia will become the best country we all envision.”
The re-launch of the program comes as Liberia grapples with significant challenges in its education sector. High tuition costs, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of qualified teachers have left many students unable to pursue their academic dreams.
Under the revamped initiative, the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs is providing over four hundred scholarships to students in secondary and tertiary institutions across the country.
For many Liberian families, the news of the program’s re-launch is a ray of hope in challenging times. Martha Johnson, a single mother Barnersville, could barely contain her emotions.
“I have three children who are brilliant but could not continue school because I couldn’t afford it. This program gives us a chance to believe in the future again,” she said tearfully.
The initiative also aims to promote inclusivity by ensuring equitable distribution of scholarships across schools. The government has pledged transparency and fairness in the selection process, a move aimed at silencing critics who have previously accused similar programs of favoritism.
“I never had an idea about this scholarship program. I went to the café to photocopy my work and I saw friends printing the scholarship forms. When I asked, they told me that they were applying for the Ministry of State scholarship. Then, I laughed. I said it would work because everything in the country is favoritism, but, again, I took the challenge to apply. Printed all my grade sheets since I had 3-point GPA on all; just to embarrass anyone at the Ministry of State who would want to deny me because I don’t know anyone there. Today, we are here. My name was selected with anyone hand picking me,” student Alfred Gbahkpah of AME University told President Boakai when addressing the audience on behalf of his colleagues.
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.
As Liberia charts its course toward recovery and development, the re-launch of the Domestic Scholarship Program is a bold step in the right direction.
