By: Julius Konton
Former District 16 Representative candidate Samuel Weah has funded the placement entrance examination fees for thirty-five young Liberians seeking admission to the University of Liberia, in what many residents have described as a significant investment in youth empowerment and educational advancement.
The initiative, which targets students aspiring to pursue higher education at Liberia’s premier public university, comes at a time when many families across the country continue to face economic hardship and increasing educational costs.
The sponsorship is expected to ease financial burdens on several households while providing young people with an opportunity to advance their academic ambitions.
Speaking during the presentation, Weah emphasized that education remains one of the most powerful tools for national transformation and personal development.
“I have always regarded education as a fundamental step toward a brighter and more promising future,” he stated.
He also expressed appreciation to individuals and supporters who contributed to the initiative, noting that collective action remains critical to helping vulnerable young people gain access to educational opportunities.
“I am grateful to all contributors who supported this noble initiative; may the Lord replenish their resources accordingly,” Weah added.
The former District 16 candidate congratulated the beneficiaries in advance and encouraged them to approach the placement examination with determination, discipline, and confidence.
Liberia continues to face major educational challenges despite progress made since the end of the country’s civil conflict.
According to data from international education partners, access to higher education remains limited for many young Liberians due to financial constraints, infrastructure gaps, and unemployment pressures.
The University of Liberia, founded in 1862, remains the country’s largest and oldest state-run university, serving thousands of students annually from across Liberia’s fifteen counties.
Weah said initiatives aimed at increasing educational access are essential to national growth and long-term prosperity, particularly among young people who represent a significant percentage of Liberia’s population.
He described education and youth empowerment as key pillars for sustainable development, stressing that investing in young people today would produce future leaders capable of driving economic growth, innovation, and social stability.
The young political figure has consistently advocated for youth inclusion and empowerment in governance, education, entrepreneurship, and community development.
Supporters say his latest intervention further demonstrates his commitment to creating opportunities for marginalized and disadvantaged youths within District 16 and beyond.
Observers note that youth unemployment and limited access to quality education remain among Liberia’s most pressing socio-economic concerns.
Recent estimates suggest that a substantial proportion of Liberia’s youthful population struggles to access higher education and stable employment opportunities, making private and community-led educational support initiatives increasingly important.
Weah maintained that empowering young people through education can produce long-term national dividends and accelerate Liberia’s development agenda.
“When young people are given the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to society, the entire nation benefits,” he said.
Community members and beneficiaries have since praised the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that could inspire other leaders and philanthropists to invest in education and youth development across Liberia.
