SANNIQUELLIE CITY, Nimba County — The Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Labour, P. Othello Mansuo Jr., has awarded 50 scholarships to students from Nimba County who are enrolled at Nimba University in Sanniquellie City, Nimba County.
By Franklin Doloquee
The scholarships are intended to reduce the financial burden on students and their families and to encourage more young people to pursue higher education.
At a brief presentation ceremony held on the university campus, Deputy Minister Mansuo said the scholarships’ initiative reflects his long-standing commitment to education, youth empowerment and community development in Nimba County.
He acknowledged the financial challenges many students face and said the awards are aimed at helping recipients remain in school, focus on their studies and develop professionally.
“This support is about investing in our future leaders,” Deputy Minister Mansuo stated.
“By easing the cost of tuition and related expenses, we give talented young people a better chance to complete their education and serve their communities.”
He urged beneficiaries to use the assistance responsibly, maintain discipline and strive for academic excellence.
The President-elect of the Nimba University Student Council, Zlanner Yenglee, spoke for the beneficiaries and expressed deep appreciation.
He said the scholarships would have an immediate impact on recipients’ lives by lowering financial stress and enabling them to concentrate on coursework and campus activities.
“On behalf of the students, I thank Deputy Minister Mansuo for this timely and generous support,” Yenglee said.
“This assistance will motivate us to work harder and give back to Nimba County when we graduate.”
University officials and community leaders, who attended the event, praised the partnership between government officials and educational institutions.
They said such collaborations are essential for expanding access to higher education, improving retention rates and strengthening the county’s human-capital base.
One faculty member noted that even modest financial aid can keep students enrolled, reduce dropouts and increase graduation rates outcomes that benefit both families and the broader local economy.
The scholarship package covers partial tuition and, in some cases, support for textbooks and other essential academic expenses. Recipients were selected based on a combination of financial need, academic performance and demonstrated commitment to their studies and community service.
Organizers emphasized that the selection process aimed to be transparent and fair.
Several beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude during the ceremony. Some described how the awards will allow them to remain in school rather than seeking work to cover fees; others said the scholarships would relieve pressure on parents and guardians who struggle to finance higher education.
A number of students described Deputy Minister Mansuo as a role model whose actions show how public officials can positively impact ordinary citizens’ lives.
Observers said the initiative could inspire other public and private actors to invest in student support programs across Liberia.
They also called for sustained, long-term funding mechanisms and partnerships to ensure that more students can access higher education without undue financial hardship.
The Ministry of Labour’s Office reminded beneficiaries that the scholarships are responsibility as well as an opportunity. Officials encouraged students to maintain good academic standing, participate in campus life and consider community service projects that will benefit Nimba County.
Meanwhile, the awards ceremony concluded with a group photo and a short reception where students, university staff and county officials had the opportunity to speak informally about future collaboration and possible expansions of the program.
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