Pro Temp. Karnga-Lawrence Launches STEM Robotics Vacation School Program

Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, officially launched a month-long STEM Robotics Vacation School Program aimed at equipping over 100 Liberian students with hands-on training in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), with a special emphasis on robotics. Held at the Volka Mission School in Paynesville, the 21-day initiative is being implemented by STEAM Robotics with support from the Nyonblee Care Foundation. The program targets both male and female students during their vacation break, offering them the tools to explore innovative technologies and ignite interest in science-based careers. In her opening remarks, Pro Tempore Karnga-Lawrence expressed pride in the program’s evolution over the past decade, noting that it has already contributed to building the capacity of young people across Liberia. She encouraged participating students to make full use of the opportunity. “We started this more than ten years ago because we believed in preparing the next generation for the future. STEM is the future,” she stated. “Take this seriously your brilliance today will shape the Liberia of tomorrow.” She underscored the importance of investing in education and innovation, emphasizing that empowering young minds in science and technology is a critical pathway toward national development. Also speaking at the event was Senator Amara Konneh of Gbarpolu County, who applauded the students’ creativity and teamwork. He shared his personal journey of perseverance and encouraged the students to remain focused and disciplined. “The generation behind us has great potential,” Senator Konneh said. “Use this platform well don’t take it for granted. I’ll do my best to recommend some of you to universities in the U.S., but your character and your intellect will determine how far you go.” The event also welcomed remarks from Cllr. Charlyne Brumskine, who urged the youth to seize every opportunity to learn and grow. She noted that Liberia’s future depends on a generation that is educated, innovative, and determined. “This is your moment to rise, learn, and lead,” she said. “Turn these opportunities into stepping stones for a brighter future.” The STEM Robotics Vacation Program is expected to continue through early August, with students engaging in various hands-on projects, coding sessions, and robotics challenges designed to build confidence and problem-solving skills.