Monrovia Tech Summit Launches First-Ever County Edition in Margibi with YARD-Liberia

Dolo Town, Margibi County — The advancement of technology in Africa, particularly in Liberia, has highlighted the urgent need to engage young people in digital skills development and innovation. In response, the Monrovia Tech Summit (MTS), a leading platform for promoting digital literacy and innovation, hosted its first-ever County Edition in Margibi County, in partnership with YARD-Liberia, Inc.

The two-day event, held from March 7–8, 2025, at the Mother of Jesus Christ Parish Hall in Dolo Town, gathered more than 150 young people from high schools, vocational institutions, and professional circles. The summit provided a vibrant space for learning, networking, and inspiration, emphasizing the critical role of digital literacy in Liberia’s development journey.

Activities and Highlights

The County Edition featured a rich mix of sessions and interactive engagements, including:

• Recruitment and Mobilization: Over 150 participants were mobilized through schools, community networks, and youth organizations across Lower Margibi.
• In-Training Highlights: Sessions covered digital skills training, innovation labs, career pathways in technology, and discussions on AI and entrepreneurship. Participants gained both theoretical knowledge and hands-on exposure.
• Youth-Led Innovation: Several young participants showcased creative ideas on how digital tools can solve everyday challenges in their schools and communities.

The event also revealed critical gaps in digital access and resources:

• Limited access to reliable internet in rural areas.
• Insufficient digital infrastructure in schools and vocational centers.
• Financial barriers preventing many youth from acquiring devices and software.

To sustain momentum, partners and stakeholders are encouraged to:

1. Invest in community digital hubs to improve access.
2. Support scholarships and training programs for young people in ICT, coding, and AI.
3. Expand the MTS County Edition model to other counties, ensuring inclusivity nationwide.

The Margibi County Edition of the Monrovia Tech Summit was more than a conference—it was a launchpad for digital empowerment. By equipping young people with 21st-century skills, the summit reinforced the message that Liberian youth are not just consumers of technology, but creators and innovators driving change.

YARD-Liberia and MTS remain committed to expanding opportunities for digital literacy and innovation, ensuring that no young Liberian is left behind in the rapidly evolving digital era.