PAYNESVILLE – The Executive Director of Youth Action International Dr. Kimmie Weeks has formally cut the ribbon and dedicated a newly renovated and equipped computer training center for young people in the Paynesville, Redlight Community. The gesture was made earlier this week and was attended by students, community members and the press.
Mr. Abdurahman I.A. Fofana Executive Director of the Liberian Youth Foundation, which is the beneficiary organization of the donation expressed heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Dr. Weeks and his Youth Action International team. He said that the support received from the organization was beyond expectation. “We had been appealing to numerous prominent individuals and even government officials, but nobody came to our help. When Dr. Weeks came and saw the conditions, we were working in he committed that he would help us improve our computer school and he has lived up to his promise,” Mr. Fofana explained. He elaborated that the building had been upgraded from plywood walls to full concrete while eight computers, chairs, and other equipment had been provided to ensure the smooth operations of the center.
For his part, Dr. Weeks said the initiative was part of his organization’s efforts to ensure that more young people had access to the ICT knowledge and skills. “Many of your young people are graduating high schools and colleges and have no computer knowledge which a basic requirement for many jobs and careers,” Weeks lamented and continued “we are making a commitment that we will continue to work with Mr. Fofana to open similar centers throughout the length and breadth of Liberia.”
Students and community residents applauded the efforts made by Youth Action International and called on others the emulate the example being set by the organization. “The actions of Dr. Weeks today shows that he truly cares for Liberian youth. He has done what most people would not done, so we are really thankful for him,” said student Mayally Keita. Youth Action International says it will renovate and equip 15 to 20 computer training centers in Montserrado in 2019.