By Linus Flomo
The recently launched Nekotech Work-Study Program, designed to offer international opportunities for young Liberians, is facing growing scrutiny amid accusations of lacking transparency and accessibility.
The initiative, which promises to provide young professionals with pathways to global experience, has come under fire for its vague announcements and unclear eligibility criteria. Public concern intensified following the government’s unveiling of a no-collateral scholarship initiative, which many have criticized as a poorly defined and inaccessible program.
While government officials have hailed the program as a groundbreaking opportunity for Liberia’s youth, offering potential scholarships and work-study placements abroad, critics argue that essential details regarding eligibility, costs, and the selection process remain largely unexplained.
This has led many to question whether the program is truly inclusive or if it will disproportionately benefit a select few.
Despite the positive publicity surrounding the program, the government’s limited initial announcements have been criticized for focusing more on generating attention than providing substance.
Many believe the rollout has been more about optics than actual support for young Liberians seeking opportunities abroad.
In response to mounting public pressure, Nekotech had a town hall meeting on November 15, 2024, at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Monrovia to address concerns about the program.
During the meeting, Nekotech representatives clarified the program’s objectives and outlined the application procedures.
However, some remain skeptical that the meeting will yield tangible solutions. “Holding a meeting is just the first step,” said prominent youth Morris Johnson. “We need more than just promises and vague explanations. Without genuine transparency and clarity, this could end up as another empty initiative.”
The effectiveness of this town hall remains in question, as many Liberians have seen similar empowerment programs fail in the past.
The country’s long history of unfulfilled promises has created a deep well of mistrust, particularly when it comes to youth-focused initiatives.
Liberians have long experienced disappointment with programs that promised economic empowerment and youth development but failed to deliver.
With youth unemployment rates soaring and economic opportunities scarce, many are growing weary of yet another initiative that seems to lack concrete planning.
The skepticism surrounding the Nekotech program reflects this broader frustration. “If this program is truly going to benefit young people, it needs to show us exactly how it will work,” said Thomas Weah, a recent university graduate who is actively searching for opportunities. “We can’t afford another program that promises a lot but delivers nothing.”
As the town hall meeting approaches, the pressure is mounting on Nekotech and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to address these serious concerns.
The program’s future now hinges on whether it can prove its legitimacy and demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability.
For many Liberians, the outcome of this meeting will be crucial in determining whether the Nekotech Work-Study Program can provide the opportunities it promises or if it will simply join the long list of failed initiatives that have left the country’s youth disillusioned.
