Monrovia, — The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) has made history by awarding full academic scholarships to 22 Liberian students to pursue higher education at the Regional Maritime University (RMU) in Accra, Ghana — the largest single cohort ever sponsored by the Authority.
The beneficiaries, chosen through a competitive national recruitment process, will study at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels in key fields shaping the future of global shipping and ocean governance. These include Ports and Shipping Administration, International Shipping and Logistics, Environmental Management, Renewable Energy Engineering, and Marine Engineering.
According to LiMA, the initiative underscores Liberia’s growing investment in human capacity development to sustain its global reputation as a leading maritime nation and to strengthen the domestic workforce for the blue economy.
Of the 22 awardees, 19 are pursuing postgraduate studies — comprising 11 males and 8 females — while three will undertake undergraduate programs. Their disciplines align with global trends in maritime innovation, environmental sustainability, and renewable energy.
Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of LiMA, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., described the initiative as both historic and visionary, positioning Liberia to meet the next generation of maritime challenges.
“Liberia’s position as a leading maritime nation requires us to continuously build a strong cadre of qualified professionals who can meet emerging challenges in shipping, port management, and environmental sustainability,” Cllr. Lighe said.
He encouraged the scholars to remain focused and dedicated, reminding them that they represent “ambassadors of Liberia” in the global maritime community.
The RMU — a regional center of excellence jointly established by five West and Central African nations — has long served as a strategic partner in maritime education and training. Liberia’s continued collaboration with the institution, officials say, is vital to maintaining its competitive edge in international shipping and port management.
The new cohort departed Liberia on Monday, September 1, 2025, ahead of the start of the new academic year in Accra. Their studies are expected to contribute to building a sustainable and innovative maritime workforce capable of driving Liberia’s national development agenda.