By Amos Harris
Paynesville, Liberia — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has challenged Liberia’s emerging student leaders to set aside partisanship and self-interest, urging them to embrace the national rallying cry: “Think Liberia, Love Liberia, Build Liberia.”
The message was delivered at the African Student Leadership Forum, hosted at Best Brains University in Paynesville. While the President’s call drew applause, it also reignited debate over whether rhetoric alone is sufficient to inspire meaningful youth engagement in national development.
The forum convened representatives from major Liberian institutions, including the University of Liberia, Cuttington University, AMEU, and community colleges spanning all fifteen counties. Addressing this diverse group, President Boakai emphasized that their presence was not a coincidence, but a recognition of their potential and the trust the nation places in them.
Speaking “as a father to his children,” the President stressed that patriotism must be the guiding principle for every decision they make. He reminded the audience that accountability is a right, but it must be exercised responsibly—in ways that strengthen, rather than fracture, the country’s fragile democratic culture.
Quoting Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, President Boakai warned students against glorifying leaders who undermine the future of young people. Instead, he urged them to promote constructive dialogue and evidence-based advocacy.
Boakai used the moment to underscore the vital importance of education, discipline, character, and national unity. He insisted that Liberia’s future ministers, judges, diplomats, and innovators are currently sitting in classrooms across the country. He encouraged the students to see themselves as “bridge builders” and defenders of peace, anchored in humility and service.
However, the President’s speech comes at a time when many young Liberians express deep frustration over limited economic opportunities, slow education reforms, and growing concerns about governance. Some youth leaders who attended the forum acknowledged the inspirational nature of the President’s words but maintained that the administration must match rhetoric with concrete action.
“Motivational speeches are good, but young people need jobs, better schools, and genuine inclusion in national decision-making,” one student representative noted after the event.
As Liberia continues to grapple with high youth unemployment, school infrastructure challenges, and a rising cost of living, the President’s call for patriotic leadership places renewed pressure on his government to deliver the substantial reforms young people have repeatedly demanded.
Ultimately, whether Boakai’s admonition will translate into new partnerships, improved policies, and real empowerment for student leaders remains a critical question for the administration and for Liberia’s next generation of decision-makers.
Comments are closed.