By Jamesetta D. Williams
MONROVIA–Minister of Education Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah has challenged recipients of the 2026 Presidential Scholarship to use their education as a tool for national development and ensure that Liberia benefits from the opportunities provided to them.
Minister Jallah made the remarks during the launch of the 2026 Presidential Scholarship Recipients’ Inter-University Debate Competition, held under the theme, “Empowering Youth Intellect, Driving National Development.”
Addressing the scholars at the opening ceremony, Minister Jallah said receiving a scholarship should be viewed not simply as an opportunity to earn a university degree, but as an investment in the future of the recipients and the country.
She challenged the scholars to consider how Liberia would benefit from the education they are receiving through government support.
According to Minister Jallah, the value of the Presidential Scholarship will ultimately be measured by what recipients contribute to Liberia after receiving their education.
She encouraged the scholars to use their knowledge and skills to develop innovative ideas, create businesses, make discoveries, improve public services, and create opportunities for other Liberians.
The Education Minister stressed that national development depends on young people being able to transform their knowledge and intellect into practical solutions to the challenges facing the country.
“National development begins when intellect becomes useful,” Minister Jallah emphasized, urging the scholars to look beyond academic achievement and consider their responsibility to society.
She also used the debate competition to encourage participants to develop critical-thinking and communication skills that can contribute to effective leadership and decision-making.
Minister Jallah urged the debaters to defend their positions with facts and evidence, listen respectfully to opposing views, and remain open to different perspectives.
She said the ability to critically examine issues and engage in constructive dialogue is essential for young people who will eventually take on leadership responsibilities in Liberia.
The Inter-University Debate Competition brings together recipients of the 2026 Presidential Scholarship as part of efforts to promote intellectual development, critical thinking, and civic responsibility among young Liberians.
The Ministry of Education also congratulated the Presidential Scholarship Committee, its partners, and all participating scholars for supporting the initiative.
Minister Jallah urged the scholars to take full advantage of the opportunities provided through the Presidential Scholarship and to ensure that their education produces meaningful results for their communities and country.
She reminded them that wherever their education and professional careers may take them, their success should ultimately contribute to building a better Liberia.
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