Maryland County’s district #2 Representative, Anthony F. Williams, has formally petitioned the House of Representatives, urging urgent action on pressing international and domestic issues affecting Liberian youth and students.
Representative Williams called on the House plenary to summon key government ministries to provide detailed briefings on the current policies and support systems for Liberian students studying abroad. This call follows increasing concerns about the welfare and safety of Liberian students in countries such as India, Morocco, and Rwanda.
Reports of harsh living conditions and inadequate support—particularly in India and Morocco—have raised alarms about the risks associated with unverified academic scholarship programs and potential instances of human trafficking involving Liberian youth. Williams emphasized the urgent need for government’s intervention to ensure student safety, academic continuity, and proper oversight of international scholarship arrangements.
The ministries of Education, Foreign Affairs, and relevant student affairs agencies were specifically urged to account for existing support mechanisms and outline actionable steps being taken to address these challenges.
In a separate petition, Representative Williams recommended an immediate review and upward adjustment of salaries, allowances, and benefits for legislative staff and other public servants. He argued that the current compensation packages do not reflect prevailing economic conditions, and may be contributing to low morale and reduced productivity.
Additionally, Representative Williams proposed the creation of new political positions to strengthen administrative functions and improve the overall efficiency of legislative and executive operations. These roles, he suggested, would address critical staffing gaps and support the government’s broader reform and service delivery agenda.
Representative Williams urged the House’s plenary to respond swiftly and decisively to both petitions. His appeal underscores the importance of safeguarding Liberian students abroad while also enhancing internal governance and institutional performance at home.