The Amara Foundation for Education and Empowerment (AFEE), a newly established non-profit organization, is poised to launch its comprehensive development programs in Bong County, Liberia. Founded in December 2024, AFEE’s mission centers on youth empowerment as the catalyst for sustainable socio-economic growth, focusing on marginalized and vulnerable children to foster an inclusive society where every young person has the opportunity to thrive. The official launch, scheduled at the Bong County Technical College Auditorium, signifies a significant step towards addressing critical development gaps in the region. The event is expected to attract a diverse audience, including government officials, educators, students, and people with disabilities, underscoring the foundation’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
AFEE’s operational strategy targets key sectors like health, education, and emergency response, aiming to complement existing government initiatives and bridge service delivery gaps exacerbated by recent USAID funding cuts. The foundation’s Secretary General, Mr. Ericson Z. Mechian, emphasizes AFEE’s collaborative approach, partnering with aligned organizations to maximize impact and foster a culture of lifelong learning. This collaborative strategy underscores the foundation’s understanding of the complex development challenges facing Liberia and the need for collective action to achieve sustainable change. The foundation’s arrival signifies not just the establishment of another organization, but a commitment to bolstering existing efforts and driving meaningful progress.
Education forms the cornerstone of AFEE’s mission, with planned scholarship programs targeting marginalized girls, school dropouts, and children from low-income families. These initiatives aim to empower individuals through literacy, skill acquisition, and self-reliance, enabling them to overcome socio-economic barriers and reach their full potential. By investing in education, AFEE aims to break the cycle of poverty and create a more equitable society. The focus on marginalized groups reflects the foundation’s commitment to reaching those most in need and ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Beyond formal education, AFEE is committed to fostering entrepreneurship and economic independence. The foundation plans to implement community-based training programs and workshops, particularly for young women, equipping them with practical business and vocational skills to enhance their employability and economic prospects. This focus on practical skills development complements the foundation’s educational initiatives, providing a holistic approach to empowerment that addresses both academic and vocational needs. By investing in entrepreneurship and skills development, AFEE aims to create a more dynamic and resilient economy, driven by empowered individuals capable of creating their own opportunities and contributing to their communities.
AFEE’s commitment extends beyond education and economic empowerment to encompass critical areas such as sports, environmental health, and emergency disaster response. The foundation is preparing to provide relief materials and support to communities affected by disasters, further solidifying its role as a comprehensive development partner. This multifaceted approach reflects a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of development challenges and the need for integrated solutions that address a range of needs. By providing support in times of crisis, AFEE aims to build resilience and ensure that communities have the resources they need to recover and rebuild.
Recognizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing, AFEE is actively pursuing partnerships with local and international colleges and universities. These collaborations aim to facilitate student and teacher exchange programs and provide access to modern educational materials, including updated textbooks and technologies sourced from Australia. These partnerships will create a vibrant learning environment for underprivileged children, fostering growth and success through exposure to new ideas, resources, and perspectives. The exchange programs will not only benefit the students involved but also contribute to the professional development of teachers and strengthen the overall education system. By connecting local institutions with international partners, AFEE is creating a bridge for knowledge transfer and fostering a global perspective within the Liberian education system.
