The Nimene Tweh Foundation (NTF) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to empowering Liberia’s youth through education. On Saturday, the Foundation held its annual Scholarship Award Ceremony, awarding over 600 students from grade school to university level across Liberia. The initiative, funded entirely by Dr. Thomas Nimene Tweh, Jr., popularly known as Original Countryman, underscores his dedication to building a brighter future for young Liberians.
This academic year, the Foundation allocated US$166,341 (L$33,268,200) to cover tuition and fees, ensuring that students can continue their education without financial interruption. The beneficiaries, representing diverse communities, include students from AMEU, UMU, Starz University, and numerous secondary schools across the country.
Christopher Neymar Vonziah, Chief of Office Staff to Dr. Tweh and head of the Foundation, offered an overview of the program and expressed heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Tweh and his wife, Mrs. Abigail Tweh, for their continuous support.
“Their dedication and generosity toward advancing education in Liberia is an inspiration to many,” Vonziah said. “This scholarship program is not just about paying school fees; it is about joyfully striving for a better Liberia.”
Vonziah recounted the origins of the initiative, noting that Dr. Tweh began supporting communities during the Ebola crisis when he personally distributed 100 bags of rice and other essentials to God Grace’s community. Recognizing the ongoing need for educational support, he transformed these efforts into a full-fledged foundation.
“On May 19, 2020, we registered with the Women’s Health Foundation, formalizing our mission to help students pay their school fees,” Vonzi said.
Dr. Tweh himself emphasized that his motivation is entirely selfless.
“Whatever I have, I believe should benefit other people. These scholarships are not out of selfish ambition; they are meant to give hope to our children,” he told attendees.
The Foundation currently supports over 700 students, making it one of Liberia’s largest private scholarship initiatives. Vonziah highlighted the impact on both primary and tertiary education:
“Seeing these young people, some preparing to earn their degrees soon, is truly inspiring. They have never experienced any technical delays in tuition payments since enrolling in universities and schools under this program,” he said.
Students themselves testified to the transformative nature of the scholarships. Beatrice Kekula, a scholarship recipient, shared her journey:
“I didn’t expect to be on this scholarship. There are so many students in my school, and I never imagined I would be chosen. When Dr. Tweh visited our school, he told us we must focus on our dreams, whether we want to become nurses or lawyers. That inspired me to work hard,” she said.
Kekula recalled her initial despair before being accepted:
“I thought I couldn’t afford school. But thanks to this scholarship, I now have hope and determination. It has truly changed my life, and I am grateful to Dr. Tweh for his support.”
Her story resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing the personal impact of the program.
Former Montserrado County Superintendent Madam Grace Kpan, whose school is among the beneficiaries, also praised the program:
“Supporting over 600 students with personal funds is no small feat. This initiative highlights the kind of leadership Liberia needs — one that invests in its people, especially through education.”
Vonziah reiterated that the program is built on accountability and transparency, with a documented process tracking all beneficiaries to ensure proper use of funds.
“Dr. Tweh started this initiative not to gain recognition or avoid criticism. It is about creating genuine opportunities for young Liberians. Every student here today represents that commitment,” he said.
Dr. Tweh’s personal contributions go beyond typical scholarship support. For university students, such as those attending Louise Arthur Gram School of Law, he covers quarterly fees amounting to US$1,576 every three months, demonstrating a sustained, hands-on commitment to education.
“If you meet someone like Dr. Tweh, who supports hundreds of students without expecting anything in return, that is a person you should emulate,” Vonziah said.
The program’s reach continues to grow each year, with students from various communities and academic levels receiving support. Many beneficiaries are pursuing professional careers and express deep appreciation for the opportunity.
“This scholarship has given me confidence and hope,” Kekula said. “I can now fully focus on my studies without worrying about tuition. I am determined to succeed and make the most of this opportunity.”
From humble beginnings distributing food during a health crisis to now managing a formal scholarship program supporting hundreds, the Nimene Tweh Foundation has established itself as a cornerstone of educational philanthropy in Liberia. Its investment of US$166,341 this year alone exemplifies how personal initiative can have nationwide impact.
“Education is the most powerful tool to transform lives,” Dr. Tweh said. “By supporting our youth, we are investing in Liberia’s future.”
The Scholarship Award Ceremony concluded with applause and gratitude from students, parents, and community leaders, marking yet another milestone in the Foundation’s mission to ensure that financial barriers do not hinder young Liberians from achieving their dreams.
