President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has called for the establishment of effective agricultural programs in community colleges to boost Liberia’s self-sufficiency, while pledging his government’s commitment to upgrade and establish international partnerships.
During a visit to the Bomi Community College (BCC), Boakai outlined plans to strengthen Liberia’s community college system, emphasizing the importance of agricultural programs to drive Liberia toward self-sufficiency.
Addressing students, faculty, and local leaders on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, President Boakai committed to government-supported upgrades, student aid, and international partnerships aimed at elevating Liberia’s educational standards.
President Boakai said his administration intends to establish effective agricultural programs in community colleges across the nation. He said the goal is to foster food security and sustainability by training students in agricultural practices.
“These programs will emphasize practical skills such as cassava production and sustainable farming, essential for strengthening Liberia’s agricultural sector,” he said.
To ensure these programs succeed, President Boakai has directed the Ministry of Agriculture to work directly with community colleges in developing agriculture-focused curricula.
Liberia has been challenged in improving food security and in the area self-sufficiency, particularly rice production. However, the Liberian leader also said that his administration is also pursuing collaborations with international organizations specialized in agriculture to provide hands-on training, technology, and global expertise to Liberian students.
Highlighting financial support, President Boakai referenced a recent scholarship initiative at the BCC, where four students received funding to continue their studies.
He pledged to expand scholarship opportunities, particularly for students in rural communities, to reduce financial barriers and increase access to education.
President Boakai urged the BCC leadership to manage resources transparently to ensure sustainable growth and upgrade the college’s educational standards.
Proper resource management, he said, is essential for attracting future investments and sustaining educational quality. Meanwhile, BCC President, Dr. Zobong Norman, welcomed the president and expressed appreciation for the government’s ongoing support. Dr. Norman requested additional aid to upgrade the college’s midwifery facilities, in support of its mission towards national development goals.
Courtesy By: Sylvester Choloplay
