In Liberia, a total of 175 students have been awarded scholarships by Keyara’s Gift Incorporated, a nongovernmental organization. The scholarships, which cover various levels of education from elementary to college, include tuition, transportation, feeding, medication, accommodation, and hospitality for some beneficiaries.
According to Reverend Francis Kollie, Country Manager of Keyara’s Gift, the organization has also provided additional supplies such as copybooks, pens, book bags, pencils, and sharpeners to support the students’ educational needs. Furthermore, older female students received sanitary pads as part of the initiative.
Reverend Kollie emphasized the importance of the beneficiaries remaining studious, noting that the funds used to pay their school fees came from the hard work of others. He expressed gratitude to the organization’s Board Chairman, Kreig Ecklund, and Program Manager, Karen Ecklund, for their continued support of Liberian children’s education.
The organization has urged monitors of the scholarship program to regularly visit schools to assess students’ performance, ensure their protection, and observe the learning environment. Additionally, Reverend Kollie appealed to the Ministry of Education to encourage private and faith-based schools to reduce tuition costs, making education more affordable for all.
The scholarship award ceremony was attended by monitors, guardians, students, including persons with disabilities, and well-wishers. Several parents and guardians praised Keyara’s Gift for alleviating the financial burden of tuition fees and extended their appreciation to the organization’s sponsors in the United States.
The initiative by Keyara’s Gift Incorporated highlights the organization’s commitment to supporting education in Liberia. With the scholarships and additional supplies provided, the beneficiaries are expected to have improved access to quality education, which is essential for their future development and the country’s growth. The organization’s efforts also underscore the importance of collaboration between private organizations, governments, and international partners in promoting education and reducing financial barriers to learning.
