By Aaron B. Nemah
Maryland County- Harper: William C. Nyanneh, Chairperson of the Disabled Group at William V.S. Tubman University (TU), has promised to transform the L$30,000 small-scale grant he received from the Ministry of Youth and Sports (MYS).
Nyanneh wants the grant goes into a business worth US$1,000 within one year.
He made the commitment on Thursday, November 5, during a program that marked the official presentation of the grant to beneficiaries.
Nyanneh urged fellow beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly, and invest them in productive ventures, rather than spending them on immediate personal needs.
“The purpose of the grant is not for quick spending, but to give beneficiaries an opportunity to build sustainable sources of income, and improve their livelihoods. What I want to tell you is that the money that is being given to us today should be put to good use. Having received this money, you should be able to use it to become a successful person. Choose something productive and meaningful.”
Nyanneh encouraged the beneficiaries to think carefully before spending the money, and to identify businesses, or services that could benefit the communities.
“Sometimes, when they give you the money, you may not know exactly what kind of business, or service you can offer to society. But the purpose of this money is to help you build something meaningful for yourself.”
Nyanneh meanwhile, encouraged young people, particularly students facing financial difficulties, to take advantage of available opportunities, and remain determined despite other challenges.
He recalled his own experiences of struggling with educational expenses. Nyanneh noted that some students have been forced to rely on their own resources to remain in school, “because of financial constraints.”
He also spoke about his experience with the Liberia Lottery Authority when a scholarship-related situation in which students were told they will receive financial support at the end of the semester.
For Nyanneh, the MYS grant is more than just money. It is a starter, and he believes that with discipline, proper planning, and hard work, a small amount can grow into a bigger, and lasting business within one year.
