Liberian exiled activist Martin K. N. Kollie has announced the successful fundraising of L$191,000 to support adult literacy education, following public concern over the reading difficulties displayed by several applicants during the recent recruitment exercise of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL).
In a statement shared on social media on Thursday, Kollie revealed that the funds will be used to provide grants to three registered adult literacy schools across Liberia, with the application process set to begin shortly.
“While some laughed at AFL applicants who could not read, we thought about finding solution. We are excited to announce that we raised L$191,000 and will provide Grant to 3 registered adult literacy schools. Application is loading,” Kollie wrote.
The initiative stems from widespread public reactions to the AFL recruitment process held months ago, during which applicants were required to read words and sentences from flash cards as part of the screening exercise.
Videos circulating on social media showed a number of candidates struggling to read, prompting ridicule and criticism from many online users.
Rather than joining the mockery, Kollie launched a fundraising campaign aimed at addressing what he described as a deeper national challenge — adult illiteracy. The campaign sought financial support from well-meaning Liberians and friends of the country to strengthen adult education programs and provide learning opportunities for individuals who missed formal education.
The activist’s announcement indicates that the campaign has now reached a significant milestone, with L$191,000 raised to benefit three registered literacy institutions. Details regarding the eligibility criteria and application procedures for the grants are expected to be released soon.
The initiative has drawn praise from supporters, who say it shifts attention from public humiliation to practical solutions that can improve literacy and expand educational opportunities for adults across Liberia.
Many observers have described the effort as a constructive response to one of the challenges highlighted during the AFL recruitment process.
