Monrovia, Liberia — Global Strategies Group LLC (GSG), a research and public relations firm, has unveiled plans to establish an international technology institution in Liberia.
The announcement was made during a high-profile meeting held on July 30 in Monrovia, where GSG representatives engaged in discussions with Liberia’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Amin Modad, on the potential impacts of this initiative on the country’s technological landscape and economic growth.
According to a Commerce Ministry released issued on Thursday, August 1, 2024, the proposed institution is poised to be a game-changer for Liberia, offering students the opportunity to pursue technology degrees at no cost.
This initiative will be made possible through strategic partnerships with the Ministries of Commerce and Education, as well as the University of Liberia.
The ultimate aim of this venture is to empower individuals within the tech industry, stimulate job creation, and address existing gender disparities in technological advancement across the country.
Cynthia Blanford, Managing Director of GSG, emphasized the transformative potential of the program, particularly the inclusion of cost waivers for participating students in the Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) Fellowship.
This initiative, she noted, would be pivotal in developing a technological hub that strengthens infrastructure and integrates Liberia into the mainstream technological advancements seen in Western nations and the broader African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Blanford also underscored the critical role of digitalization in fostering business growth and enhancing delivery processes, particularly in tackling security challenges.
The GSG team has proposed a partnership with Georgia Tech and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which would include a $5 million grant specifically aimed at promoting gender inclusivity in higher education.
During the meeting, Minister Modad shared his vision for a “Made in Liberia” fair, designed to promote locally produced goods and green enterprises.
He stressed the need for shared policies and frameworks to support this initiative and highlighted the importance of identifying dynamic individuals to lead the green tech digital project.
This project is expected to be a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Commerce and Telecommunications, with additional support from the Peace Corps.
Minister Modad also addressed the importance of engaging the Liberian diaspora through the African Chamber of Commerce.
He called for increased support for trade services, intellectual property rights, and funding for an arts program project.
Additionally, he highlighted the necessity of training inspectors and maintaining standards to ensure the importation of high-quality goods.
The Minister emphasized the need for adequate funding to complete the construction of the Made in Liberia center, which represents the first phase of the ministry’s broader development agenda.
Global Strategies for Good (GSG) is committed to creating positive social and environmental impacts through its business strategies.
The firm specializes in developing global business strategies that integrate sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
By helping businesses reduce their environmental footprint, improve resource efficiency, and engage effectively with stakeholders, GSG contributes to the well-being of communities and the environment.
As Liberia stands on the brink of significant technological and economic transformation, the establishment of this international technology institution could mark a new chapter in the nation’s development, positioning it as a key player in the global digital economy.
