Executive Mansion, Monrovia - As part of events commemorating Liberia’s 178th Independence Day, His Excellency President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. on Friday, July 25, 2025, engaged hundreds of young Liberians in a Youth Town Hall held at the Monrovia City Hall.

Organized by the National Youth Advisory Council, the event brought together young people from diverse backgrounds and sectors to dialogue directly with the President and senior officials about the nation’s priorities for youth development, education, employment, and social reform.

In his address, President Boakai emphasized that his administration is fully committed to empowering young people, improving education, fighting the drug epidemic, and ensuring Liberia’s future is built on integrity and opportunity.

“We are not ignoring you,” the President told the gathering. “We are investing in you—through improved education, teacher training, digital skills, job creation, and strong institutions. Our attention is on you because your future is Liberia’s future.” He added.

He expressed concern about the erosion of academic standards and called on young people to uphold values of honesty and responsibility:

“More than 7,000 students enrolled at our university never took an entrance exam. That should concern us all. Cheating, shortcuts—these don’t build a nation. We must hold each other to higher standards.”

The Town Hall featured a panel discussion with key national leaders, including:
• Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, Minister of Education
• Cllr. Cooper Kruah, Minister of Labor
• Hon. Laramand Nyonton, Deputy Minister for TVET, Ministry of Youth and Sports
• Mr. James Kiawein, Chairperson of the National Youth Advisory Council

Each panelist shared insights into ongoing initiatives in their sectors aimed at expanding opportunities for youth and improving the systems that shape their lives.

In a display of national pride and talent, the Liberian Youth Orchestra also performed stirring renditions of national songs, reminding the audience of the rich cultural and artistic potential of Liberia’s young people.

President Boakai closed the forum with a message of unity and hope:

“This country has always welcomed others. Now is the time for us to ensure that our young people feel seen, supported, and empowered. Let’s work together to build a future based on love, honesty, and shared responsibility.”

The Youth Town Hall was a key highlight of the 178th Independence Day celebrations and reinforces the Boakai administration’s commitment to youth inclusion in national decision-making.