By Stephen G. Fellajuah (contributor)
In response to growing public concern, Nekotech’s Executive Chairperson, Rev. Dr. Princess Asie Kabuki Ocansey, bows here, promising to refund students who paid US$236.
This amount, collected initially as a “redline fee” for services related to a purported scholarship application process, has now been waived for students in Liberia. Students in other countries, however, are still required to pay the fee.
Rev. Dr. Ocansey explains that the “redline fee” covers essential services that Nekotech provides, including training students on how to craft professional documents such as CVs and cover letters. We also teach them how to write a statement of purpose and develop a five-year economic development plan,” she adds. According to her, these services are designed to equip students with the tools they need to succeed academically and professionally.
Nekotech, aware of challenges students face when pursuing education abroad, does not want students to arrive in the United States without proper preparation. To address this, the program also guides students in preparing for English proficiency tests. Instead of the more expensive IELTS, which costs US$300, Nekotech offers training for the Duolingo English Test, which costs only US$65. This provides a more affordable option for Liberian students to meet the language requirements for U.S. institutions, she says.
However, the program has come under severe criticism since its launch here, with many describing it as a scam and accusing the Government of Liberia of making a grave mistake by partnering with Nekotech. The backlash intensified following the announcement of a US$25 million scholarship deal, which some critics have labeled a national disgrace.
Former Assistant Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism Matthew Nyanplu took to his Facebook page on Friday to condemn the scholarship deal, calling it “a national disgrace” and a “terrible mistake.” His comments reflect widespread skepticism about the program’s legitimacy and potential impact on Liberia.
Following a meeting with students about Nekotech’s Work Study Program, a non-collateral education loan initiative, Rev. Dr. Ocansey spoke to reporters at the EJS Ministerial Complex over the weekend.
She confirms that “the eight people who have paid will be fully refunded” and emphasizes that Nekotech honors its commitments. She also clarifies that the US$236 fee would be waived for students in Liberia, reaffirming the organization’s dedication to its mission and the students’ best interests.
She further highlights that the non-collateral education loan program is designed to support bachelor’s degree holders with a GPA of 3.0 and above, aged 25 to 40. The program will enable these individuals to pursue master’s degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Artificial Intelligence, and Business Administration (MBA) at select partner schools in the United States. These schools collaborate with Nekotech Center of Excellence to provide students with opportunities to advance in critical sectors.
The program has received strong backing from the Government of Liberia, which has been impressed by Nekotech’s successful track record in other African countries. With operations in Malawi, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Zambia, and beyond, Nekotech’s impact has been recognized for its contributions to education and technology. Based on this proven success, the Liberian government has invited Nekotech to bring its expertise to Liberia, aiming to help the country become part of the broader African prosperity story.
Dr. Ocansey expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, “We are looking at Liberia becoming the beacon of hope for Africa through this program.”
On November 6, 2024, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. officially launched a groundbreaking twenty-five million dollar no-collateral student loan program in partnership with Nekotech. The announcement was made during a ceremony at Monrovia’s Tea House, Executive Mansion.
The initiative aims to empower over 250 promising Liberian students by offering them access to higher education in high-demand fields such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Business, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) at renowned United States and Canadian institutions.
It is aligned with the Government of Liberia’s ARREST Agenda, which is soon to be expanded into the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development. The agenda prioritizes human capacity building and addresses the nation’s growing need for a skilled workforce in key sectors.
The no-collateral loan scheme represents a transformative opportunity for young Liberians who have previously faced financial barriers to pursuing advanced education abroad. By eliminating the need for collateral, the program opens doors to higher education that would otherwise remain closed for many students.
“Today marks an extraordinary occasion for Liberia,” President Boakai said during the launch. “Through this partnership, Nekotech is investing in Liberia’s future by enabling our young men and women to realize their dreams.”
He continued, “This initiative will allow students to acquire the skills, knowledge, and leadership qualities that will be pivotal for our nation’s growth and prosperity.”
The President thanked Nekotech and its partners for their commitment to Liberia’s development. He praised the program for removing the financial obstacles that often come with collateral-based student loans, thus expanding access to high-quality education for Liberia’s youth. Students applying to enroll will return equipped to contribute to Liberia’s economic and social development.
Addressing some of the beneficiaries, the President urged them to take full advantage of the opportunity. “Seize this opportunity, study hard, put your all into it, engage deeply, and return with a commitment to give back to Liberia,” he said. He reminded them that their success would symbolize the success of the entire nation. Editing by Jonathan Browne
