By Grace Q. Bryant
The Stevens Institute of Technology, a leading U.S.-based university, has unveiled a transformative initiative aimed at providing Liberian students with advanced educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
During a press briefing by the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT) on Tuesday, December 3, Associate Dean and Professor at the Stevens School of Business, Michael Zur Muehlen, highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering academic excellence among Liberian students.
“We aim to equip Liberian students with world-class education in computer science, engineering, and other STEM fields, empowering them to create meaningful global impacts,” said Mr. Muehlen.
The initiative is open to students of all ages, reflecting the university’s dedication to inclusivity and equal access to education.
It offers opportunities through Stevens’ Master’s and Ph.D. programs, focusing on developing expertise in areas critical to the global technological landscape.
However, the university clarified that it will not assist with visa applications.
Instead, Stevens will serve as a platform connecting qualified candidates to academic opportunities in the United States.
“Every applicant will undergo a rigorous verification process to ensure transparency and uphold Liberia’s representation at our institution,” Mr. Zur Muehlen added.
The program is designed to serve as a pathway for Liberian undergraduate and graduate students to join an academic environment that prioritizes technological innovation and research.
By doing so, the Stevens Institute hopes to empower Liberian students with the skills necessary to excel in competitive industries worldwide.
“This is a transformative moment for our youth. With the support of Stevens Institute, our students will gain access to quality education and research opportunities, which are essential for driving technological and economic growth in Liberia,” he said.
By launching this initiative, Stevens Institute of Technology aims to contribute to global educational equity while supporting Liberia’s efforts to build a future-ready workforce capable of tackling modern challenges.
The Stevens Institute of Technology, based in New Jersey and established in 1870, has over 150 years of experience educating engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and business professionals.
It offers 58 graduate programs and 20 Ph.D. programs, with a student body of around 9,000 evenly split between undergraduate and graduate students from over 54 countries.
The university recently launched an initiative to recruit talented Liberian students into its STEM, engineering, and business programs.
Aiming to foster diversity and global engagement, Stevens offers a merit-based scholarship for Liberian applicants, though full funding is not available.
The application process is entirely online, requiring students to upload transcripts, a statement of purpose, and a CV. Applications undergo rigorous internal verification before being reviewed by specific academic departments to ensure alignment with program requirements.
Graduate students typically complete their master’s programs in 18-24 months and are eligible for a three-year Optional Practical Training (OPT) period to gain work experience in the U.S. before returning to Liberia.
The initiative emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and real-world application, preparing students for careers in fields like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and biomedical engineering.
He highlighted their enthusiasm for recruiting students from Africa, particularly Liberia, and expressed commitment to nurturing talent for global impact.
