MONROVIA – Mayor John-Charuk Siafa of the Monrovia City Corporation received a heartfelt tribute from 27 beneficiaries of the city’s International Scholarship Program during a formal ceremony held at City Hall. The event celebrated the Mayor’s significant contributions to human capital development in Liberia, particularly in providing educational opportunities abroad.
During the ceremony on September 12, the scholarship recipients presented Mayor Siafa with a certificate of honor and a traditional gown, symbolizing their appreciation for his unwavering dedication to fostering a generation of educated Liberian youth. The initiative, which sponsors students to pursue their studies in the People’s Republic of China, highlights the city’s commitment to empowering young people through education.
In attendance were key members of the Monrovia City Corporation, including Mr. Pekeleh Gbuapaye, Director of International Affairs, Mr. Augustine Paylorde, Director of Compliance, and Madam Florence Dukuly Honore, Director for Waste Facilities, who were also recognized for their roles in facilitating the scholarship program.
Speaking on behalf of the scholarship beneficiaries, student J. Adolphus W. Swen expressed profound gratitude towards Mayor Siafa for the fully funded educational support, stating it alleviated the financial burdens faced by their families. “To Mayor John-Charuk Siafa, we say thank you for your tireless efforts to improve Liberia. Your leadership and care for young people give us hope and inspiration,” he remarked.
The beneficiaries emphasized their commitment to representing Liberia with pride and promised to work diligently while studying in China. They appreciated the transparency of the scholarship vetting process, noting that it was free from any personal interests by the staff of the Monrovia City Corporation.
In his response, Mayor Siafa expressed gratitude to H.E. President Joseph N. Boakai for the fruitful discussions held at the 2024 FOCAC Summit, which have begun to positively impact the residents of Monrovia. He also commended the commitment of the Provincial Government of Guizhou for their invaluable support in empowering young people.
The Mayor urged the scholarship recipients to be exemplary international students and to focus on their studies, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a positive image for Liberia while abroad. “China has strict laws, and their culture is highly respected. Please take care of yourselves and be good students,” he advised.
The students are scheduled to depart for China on Monday, September 15, 2025, embarking on a journey that symbolizes hope for the future of Liberia through education and international cooperation.
