MONROVIA, LIBERIA-Youth and Sports Minister Cornelia Kurah has called for increased investment in young people, describing them as critical to Liberia’s development and future leadership.

Delivering the keynote address at Gonet Academy’s Cohort 15 graduation ceremony, Minister Kurah said:” Liberia’s youthful population presents both an opportunity and a challenge, depending on how much the country invests in their development”.

She emphasized that professional skills such as procurement, financial management, project management, data analysis, and marketing are essential to strengthening both public and private institutions.

The Minister challenged graduates to apply their newly acquired skills to improve their lives, support their communities, and contribute to national development.

She also disclosed that the ministry has committed to sponsoring approximately 2,000 Liberians across the 15 counties at public universities this year, adding that next year’s scholarship policy is expected to include Gonet Academy.

At the same time, the Chief Executive Officer of Gonet Academy, Mohammed Kerkulah, has encouraged young people to invest in professional education and skills development, describing them as important tools for personal growth and career advancement.

Speaking at the institution’s 15th circle graduation ceremony, Kerkulah urged graduates not to limit their ambitions, emphasizing that acquiring additional skills can create opportunities and help individuals achieve their professional dreams.

He shared his personal journey, recalling that he started as an intern earning approximately 100 United States dollars monthly before establishing an institution that now provides opportunities for other young people.

Meanwhile, Kerkulah announced that Gonet Academy acquired a property between 16th and 17th Streets in Sinkor, Monrovia, in March this year, as part of its expansion plans.

He said:” The institution intends to develop the property into a modern training facility within the next three to five years, with plans to attract students and professionals from Liberia and other parts of West Africa”.