Our True Wealth Is Our Youth” NOCAL President Says as 20 Liberian Students Win Scholarships

Monrovia, Liberia – July 2, 2025

The National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) has given full university scholarships to 20 brilliant Liberian students as part of its goal to help build the country’s future through education.

The event was held at NOCAL’s headquarters in Monrovia and brought together top education officials, government leaders, civil society groups, and proud family members of the students.

This is part of NOCAL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, which focuses on helping young Liberians succeed in school and grow into future leaders and innovators.

A Big Step for Liberia’s Future

NOCAL’s President & CEO, Hon. Fabian M. Lai, said the scholarships are more than just financial support  they are an investment in Liberia’s future.

“We are not just giving scholarships,” he said. “We are helping shape the next generation who will lead Liberia into a brighter future.”

He reminded the public that while Liberia has natural resources like oil, the country’s true wealth is its people, especially young, determined students.

Tough Competition, Big Results

This year’s scholarship program had 191 applicants from all 15 counties. The selection process was tough, with three rounds:

1. Paperwork checks

2. Aptitude tests

3. Panel interviews

In the end, 20 students were chosen. One-third (33%) of the winners are female students, many of whom are studying science and technology—showing NOCAL’s support for girls in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

The program also supports the Liberian government’s ARREST Agenda, especially the part that focuses on improving education and helping Liberians take key roles in the oil and energy sector.

Students Must Lead by Example

Hon. Lai encouraged the new scholarship winners to work hard, stay focused, and be role models.

“You are now ambassadors of NOCAL’s vision,” he said. “You are the ones who will help build a better Liberia.”

More to Come

NOCAL announced that the scholarship program will continue to grow. They plan to launch:

• A mentorship program led by past scholarship winners

• Internships in the oil and energy industry, to help students gain real work experience.

Hon. Lai ended by calling on both the public and private sectors to support education:

“The benefits of educating our youth are more valuable than even oil,” he said.

This event is another major step in NOCAL’s mission to build a stronger, smarter Liberia through quality education.