Edwin Genoway, Jr.
Africa-Press – Liberia. The Government of Liberia and a US-based organization, “Our Seeds Tomorrow,” have inked a groundbreaking agreement aimed at investing in the fields of science, technology, environmental studies, agriculture, and mathematics (STEAM) within Liberia. This new initiative seeks to invigorate and revitalize the intellectual landscape of Liberia, with a particular focus on technology and engineering, while simultaneously creating job opportunities.
The cornerstone of this endeavor is the construction of state-of-the-art facilities in Lofa County, with an estimated cost of approximately US$10 million.
The program outlines a collaborative effort between the government and their US-based partner to formulate and implement policies and procedures that will foster a vibrant working relationship between the Government of Liberia and “Our Seeds Tomorrow.” Together, they aim to establish an institute that will spearhead a community development program, ultimately benefiting thousands of individuals in Fissibu and the surrounding communities.
Furthermore, this partnership aims to provide a comprehensive educational program encompassing science, technology, environmental studies, agriculture, and mathematics. It will also include service-learning courses where students will gain hands-on experience in the institute-managed field and work closely with small-scale local producers on their farms, thereby promoting sustainable community development and ensuring products and services meet or exceed industry standards.
Liberia’s Minister of Justice, Cllr. Musa Frank Dean, expressed his satisfaction with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing, indicating that it lays the foundation for both parties to begin their collaborative efforts. The official signing ceremony took place on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at the Ministry of Justice in Monrovia.
The Founder and Executive Director of “Our Seeds Tomorrow,” Dazia M. Fumbah, underscored the importance of this new program to Liberia, emphasizing their commitment to working hand-in-hand with the government to provide sustainable opportunities for Liberians. Fumbah stressed the need for a paradigm shift in creating opportunities that can positively impact the Liberian people, achieving this through innovation and economic growth that will propel Liberia to new heights.
He emphasized that the program’s core objective is to involve Liberians in the global innovative process and economic expansion. Fumbah highlighted the potential of agriculture projects to create opportunities, including food security, job prospects, and economic growth, given Liberia’s fertile soil.
Fumbah noted that the STEAM program is open to students from 10th to 12th grade, and key assessments, including land evaluation, have already been completed. He added that a community in Lofa County has pledged to provide 50,000 acres of land to kickstart the program, with plans to commence in January 2024. The involvement of the Ministries of Education, Agriculture, and Justice underscores their commitment to reaching various parts of the country.
Regarding funding, Fumbah estimated the project’s facilities and equipment costs to range from US$7 to US$10 million. To secure this funding, they intend to seek international partners who share their vision for impacting the Liberian people.
In conclusion, “Our Seeds Tomorrow” aims to not only enhance the technological acumen of many Liberians but also advance the broader interests of the nation. Additionally, the agreement highlights the organization’s commitment to educating future leaders while contributing to the economic development of post-war Liberia, with a special focus on public health awareness and general education.
“Our Seeds Tomorrow” is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the community. They provide top-quality programs that benefit both the community and its surrounding areas and invite support for their initiatives.
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