By Emmanuel Tobotinho Quiah
About 70 students have received financial aid from Mr. Eric Giko, a two-time senatorial candidate of Maryland County, as part of his commitment to education and youth empowerment.
The recipients are students of the William V. S. Tubman University and the LICOSESS College of Education in Maryland County.
The ratio stands at 50 students from Tubman University and 20 students from the LICOSESS College of Education.
According to our reporter, the initiative has brought relief to dozens of struggling students facing financial difficulties in pursuing higher education amid Liberia’s ongoing economic challenges.
Students from both institutions described the intervention as timely and meaningful, noting that several beneficiaries had nearly lost hope of continuing their studies because of financial constraints.
Speaking on behalf of beneficiaries from the LICOSESS College of Education in Pleebo, Ms. Susannah Sieh thanked Mr. Giko for the support, describing the initiative as a source of hope and encouragement for many students.
“This support means a lot to us because many of us are facing serious financial challenges in school,” she said.
“We are grateful to Mr. Giko for remembering students like us. This assistance will encourage us to continue our education and work hard toward achieving our goals.”
Ms. Sieh further noted that the initiative demonstrates that there are still individuals willing to invest in the future of young Liberians through education.
A student from Tubman University, who requested anonymity, also praised Giko for remaining committed to supporting students despite not holding elected public office.
“It is encouraging to see someone continue to invest in education even outside of government,” the student said.
“This shows genuine concern for the future of young people and the development of our county.”
In a brief statement, Hon. Giko said education remains one of the most important tools for national development and youth empowerment.
“Our young people are the future of this country, and supporting their education is a responsibility we must all take seriously,” Giko stated. “I believe that when students are given the opportunity to succeed academically, they can contribute meaningfully to society and help transform their communities.”
He added that the initiative was intended to ease some of the financial burdens confronting students and encourage them to remain focused on their academic goals.
Some education stakeholders in Maryland County have welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the importance of scholarships and student assistance programs in improving access to higher education, particularly for students from underprivileged communities.
The beneficiaries also called on other citizens, politicians, and well-meaning individuals to emulate Hon. Giko’s example by supporting students and educational institutions across the county.
Hon. Giko, who previously contested the Maryland County senatorial seat on two occasions, has remained active in community and humanitarian initiatives throughout the county.
Residents say his latest educational assistance program reflects his continued dedication to community development and youth empowerment at a time when many students are struggling to cope with rising educational costs and economic hardship.
Observers note that initiatives such as Giko’s financial aid program highlight the growing role private citizens and local philanthropists continue to play in supporting Liberia’s education sector.
As students continue to battle tuition burdens and financial difficulties, beneficiaries say interventions like this provide hope and motivation for many young people striving to achieve their academic dreams.
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