11 Liberian Civil Servants depart for South Korea

A delegation of civil servants from Liberia, including seven men and four women, is off to South Korea for postgraduate studies.

By Lewis S. Teh

Monrovia, Liberia; August 14, 2025 – At least 11 Liberian civil servants from various governmental institutions are heading to South Korea to pursue master’s degree programs in various disciplines.

The team, comprised of seven men and four women, is heading the first cohort of recipients under the 2025 Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Scholarship Program, to pursue master’s studies in key development fields, including Public Policy, Development Economics, Agriculture, and Technology.

Ahead of their departure, the Liberian scholars paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, at his office in Monrovia yesterday, August 13, 2025.

Giving a brief word of caution at the event, Minister Ngafuan commended the Government of Korea for its continued support and collaboration with Liberia.

“We engaged the Korean authorities and emphasized the need for educational opportunities for our people — and they listened,” Minister Ngafuan said. “We appreciate this gesture and remain hopeful that KOICA and other bilateral partners will continue to open more doors for Liberians.”

On behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, the Minister congratulated the scholars on their achievements and selection for the prestigious program.

 He also shared insights from his professional journey, encouraging them to embrace their new roles as national ambassadors.

“You are not just travelling as individuals; you are carrying the Liberian flag,” he emphasized.

 “Remain studious, stay focused on your academic pursuits, and uphold the highest standards of discipline and integrity while in South Korea.”

Minister Ngafuan reaffirmed the Boakai administration’s commitment to creating opportunities for capable and prepared Liberians, especially within the civil service.

He further charged the team to remain disciplined, focused, and serve as true ambassadors of Liberia as they embark on their studies in the Republic of Korea.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Spokesperson Idris I. Holman, expressed gratitude to both the Government of Liberia and KOICA for facilitating what he described as a life-changing opportunity.

“We are honoured and grateful,” Holman said. “We pledge to work hard, stay disciplined, and remain patriotic as we represent Liberia on the global stage.”

The KOICA Scholarship Program is a key component of the growing bilateral relationship between the Governments of Liberia and the Republic of Korea.

It aims to strengthen human capacity and support Liberia’s path toward sustainable development. Editing by Jonathan Browne