Four students of the University of Liberia, College of Agriculture and Forestry, have received a total of US$2,000 in grants from the Sweat Equity Leadership Development following a competitive agricultural entrepreneurship program held at the University’s Fendall Campus.
The program brought together students from the College of Agriculture and Forestry, university supporters, and members of Sweat Equity Leadership Development. It was held under the theme Shaping Entrepreneurs Through Agriculture, with the aim of empowering students to develop sustainable agricultural businesses.
The grant initiative took place at the University of Liberia Fendall Campus, where nine students presented business proposals for consideration. The participants included Dwannah V. Dukuly, Emmanuel Taylor, Maryrose S.K. Jacobs, Andrew Mulbah, Zomonwon Kilay, Janet S. Weadatu, Abraham Sarmie, Emmett Jolo, Kermedia Yarzuah, and Willianmina B. Glay.
After the presentations, four students were selected, each receiving US$500. The winners were Willianmina B. Glay as first place, Emmett Jolo as second place, Emmanuel Taylor as third place, and Andrew Mulbah as fourth place.
During the program, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sweat Equity Leadership Development, Dr. Pitman Kennedy, expressed appreciation to the University of Liberia and the participating students for their commitment. He stated that the program was designed to educate students, improve agricultural studies, and support career development in agriculture. He further noted that the grant initiative is part of Sweat Equity Leadership Development long-term commitment to giving back to Liberian students and contributing to national development, with plans to continue the program annually.
First-place winner Willianmina B. Glay, a senior student of Agricultural Economics and Extension Education, acknowledged the opportunity as a result of dedication, persistence, and passion for agriculture. She indicated that the grant would be used in an impactful manner to support her education, family, and community, with a commitment to accountability and progress reporting.
Second-place winner Emmett Jolo described the selection process as competitive and beneficial. He explained that the grant would help address operational challenges and improve agricultural production. He added that the project aims to establish a processing facility within the next two years to better supply the Liberian market.
The Sweat Equity Leadership Development is a Liberian-based organization committed to empowering young people, promoting leadership, and supporting Liberia’s development through education, entrepreneurship, and agricultural innovation.
