Published: October 28, 2026
MONROVIA — FrontPage Africa Editor and Head of Newsroom Gerald C. Koinyeneh has challenged young Liberians to embrace education as a powerful weapon against poverty, ignorance and disease, stressing that the country’s development depends largely on an educated, skilled and responsible population.
Koinyeneh said education remains one of the most effective means of addressing Liberia’s socioeconomic challenges, empowering citizens to secure employment, establish businesses, make informed decisions and contribute meaningfully to national development.
He made the remarks Saturday, Oct. 24, while delivering the keynote address at the 2025-26 graduation and closing convocation of Palmfield Community Christian School in Lee Hill Community, Lower Johnsonville Township, Montserrado County.
“Our theme speaks directly to three major challenges that continue to affect Liberia: poverty, ignorance, and disease. Education can help us confront all three,” he said.
Addressing graduates, parents, teachers and school administrators, Koinyeneh emphasized that education must go beyond obtaining certificates to developing the knowledge, discipline and practical skills needed to transform individuals and communities.
He explained that education helps combat poverty by equipping individuals with employable skills, improving their earning potential and creating opportunities for entrepreneurship.
According to him, an educated and skilled population also provides the human resources necessary to drive economic growth and national development.
“When people are empowered to earn a living and become productive members of society, their contributions can strengthen their communities and the national economy,” Koinyeneh added.
Beyond economic empowerment, the FrontPage Africa editor said education plays a crucial role in combating ignorance by developing critical thinking, promoting informed decision-making and helping citizens distinguish facts from misinformation.
“Education teaches us to ask questions, examine information, think critically, and make informed decisions. It helps us distinguish facts from falsehoods and encourages us to understand our rights and responsibilities as citizens,” he said.
Koinyeneh maintained that an educated society is better positioned to demand accountability from public officials, participate in democratic processes and make decisions based on credible information rather than misinformation.
Turning to public health, he stressed that education is equally essential in preventing disease and improving the well-being of communities.
“Third, education helps fight disease. Through education, people can learn about hygiene, sanitation, nutrition, disease prevention, and the importance of seeking appropriate medical care,” Koinyeneh said.
He noted that education also produces the doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians, researchers and other healthcare professionals responsible for protecting lives and strengthening the country’s health system.
Koinyeneh urged national authorities and other stakeholders to prioritize education, describing it as an investment not only in individual success but also in Liberia’s long-term development.
“Graduates, you have the opportunity to become part of that transformation. You may not all become ministers, engineers, doctors, business owners, or professors. But you can all strive to become responsible, hardworking, and productive citizens who contribute positively to society,” he said.
He encouraged the graduates to remain determined despite the economic and social challenges they may encounter, emphasizing that their backgrounds should not determine the limits of their ambitions.
“What matters is your willingness to learn, your commitment to work, and your determination to keep moving forward,” he said.
The journalist further reminded the graduates that academic achievement carries responsibilities, urging them to demonstrate integrity, discipline and commitment as they pursue higher education and professional opportunities.
“As you leave Palmfield Community Christian School today, carry your certificates with pride, but carry your knowledge, discipline, integrity, and determination with even greater pride,” Koinyeneh encouraged the graduates.
He stressed that Liberia’s future would depend on the decisions made by the current generation and the opportunities created for young people to develop their potential.
“Graduates, your journey is just beginning. Dream boldly. Work diligently. Learn continuously. Never give up on yourselves,” he emphasized.
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