Keyara’s Gift Incorporated, a non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing educational opportunities in Liberia, has made a significant investment in the future of 175 Liberian students. The organization recently awarded scholarships to students ranging from elementary school to college, covering a comprehensive range of expenses including tuition, transportation, meals, medical care, housing, and other essential needs. This multifaceted approach ensures that beneficiaries can fully focus on their studies without the burden of financial constraints or logistical challenges. The scholarship distribution ceremony, held in Paynesville, outside Monrovia, was more than just a financial transaction; it was a celebration of educational opportunity and a symbol of hope for a brighter future for Liberian youth.
Beyond the financial support of the scholarships, Keyara’s Gift Incorporated also demonstrated a deep commitment to the holistic well-being of the students. The organization distributed essential school supplies, including copybooks, pens, book bags, pencils, and sharpeners, equipping the students with the tools they need to succeed academically. Recognizing the specific needs of older female students, the organization also thoughtfully provided sanitary pads, ensuring their comfort and dignity during their educational journey. This comprehensive approach underscores the organization’s understanding that education is not just about academic achievement, but also about creating a supportive and enabling environment for students to thrive.
Reverend Francis Kollie, the Country Manager of Keyara’s Gift, played a pivotal role in the scholarship distribution ceremony. He eloquently articulated the organization’s mission and encouraged the scholarship recipients to embrace the opportunity and dedicate themselves to their studies. He emphasized the hard work and dedication that made these scholarships possible, reminding the students that this support represents an investment in their potential and a belief in their future contributions to society. Rev. Kollie’s words served as both an inspiration and a call to action, urging the students to make the most of this invaluable opportunity.
The success of Keyara’s Gift Incorporated’s scholarship program is a testament to the collaborative efforts of individuals and organizations committed to improving education in Liberia. Rev. Kollie expressed sincere gratitude to the organization’s Board Chairman, Kreig Ecklund, and Program Manager, Karen Ecklund, both based in the United States, for their unwavering support and dedication to the educational advancement of Liberian children. This transatlantic partnership highlights the power of international collaboration in addressing global challenges and creating positive change in communities around the world.
To ensure the effectiveness and impact of the scholarship program, Rev. Kollie stressed the importance of ongoing monitoring and evaluation. He urged the program monitors to regularly visit the schools to assess the students’ academic progress, ensure their safety and well-being, and observe the overall learning environment. This commitment to accountability and continuous improvement demonstrates the organization’s dedication to not just providing financial support, but also to ensuring that the resources are utilized effectively and that the students are receiving the support they need to succeed.
Furthermore, Rev. Kollie addressed the broader issue of educational affordability in Liberia. He appealed to the Ministry of Education to encourage private and faith-based schools to reduce their tuition costs, making quality education more accessible to a wider range of students. This call for greater affordability reflects the organization’s understanding that systemic change is essential for creating a truly equitable education system. The scholarship program, while impactful, is just one piece of the puzzle; broader policy changes are needed to create lasting and sustainable improvements in educational access and affordability for all Liberian children. The event was attended by various stakeholders, including program monitors, guardians, students, including those with disabilities, and well-wishers, demonstrating the community’s collective support for the initiative. The presence of students with disabilities underscored the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that all children have the opportunity to access quality education.
