The Liberia National Students’ Union (LINSU) has expressed immense pride and appreciation for His Excellency Amb. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, President of the Republic of Liberia, appointed its president, James Gbelee-Washington, to the National Youth Advisory Council. The council, a key initiative of the Office of the President, includes the President of the Federation of Liberian Youth and the Speaker of the Mano River Union Youth Parliament, Liberia Chapter.
LINSU views this appointment as a significant step toward amplifying the voices of young people in national governance and decision-making. According to the organization’s National Executive Committee, the move highlights President Boakai’s commitment to inclusive governance and the recognition of youth’s vital role in shaping Liberia’s future.
“We are deeply grateful to President Boakai for his vision in establishing this important council,” LINSU stated in a press release. “This initiative demonstrates the administration’s steadfast commitment to empowering young leaders and facilitating dialogue with Liberia’s statutory youth organizations.”
As the country’s leading student advocacy body, LINSU reaffirmed its dedication to supporting the council’s mission. It stressed that its representation on the council, through President Gbelee-Washington, will focus on advocating for policies that address the needs of Liberian students and ensure their active involvement in the nation’s developmental agenda.
“President Washington’s work on the council will be driven by the principles of transparency, accountability, inclusiveness, and good governance that LINSU upholds,” the statement continued. “We remain committed to maintaining our autonomy and independence while advancing the aspirations of Liberian students.”
LINSU also pledged to collaborate with the Youth Advisory Council and other stakeholders to address Liberia’s youth’s critical challenges. Key areas of focus will include education, innovation, and empowerment. The union believes that partnerships fostered through the council will create an impactful platform for policy advocacy, allowing young people to take a more active role in national development, peace-building, and economic progress.
“This appointment is not only a victory for LINSU but also a recognition of the potential of young leaders across Liberia,” the statement concluded. “We are confident this initiative will catalyze sustainable youth engagement and advance Liberia’s development goals.”
With the creation of the National Youth Advisory Council, there is a renewed hope that youth participation in governance will shift from symbolic gestures to meaningful contributions, ultimately helping to build a more inclusive and forward-thinking Liberia.
