In a heartwarming gesture of support for STEM education and youth empowerment, Orange Liberia's CEO Jean Marius Yao, alongside Ms. Sara E. Buchanan, Executive Director of Orange Foundation, and Mr. Zaza Mulbah, Senior Manager at ODC, today September 26, 2023, visited and provided essential assistance to "Team Liberia" as they prepared to embark on a remarkable journey to Singapore for the 2023 FIRST Global Challenge.

The CEO handed out Flights tickets and hotel accommodation to members of the team. The team will represent Liberia at The FIRST Global Challenge, an international robotics competition taking place in Singapore from October 7th to 10th, 2023.

What is FIRST Global? FIRST Global is a prestigious international robotics challenge that aims to ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among young minds worldwide. With over two billion youths as its audience, FIRST Global empowers the next generation of STEM leaders and problem solvers, emphasizing the importance, excitement, and real-world applications of STEM education.

ODC's Crucial Support: This year, "Team Liberia" had the invaluable support of the ODC, made possible through funding from GIZ. This support exemplifies ODC's commitment to nurturing and fostering STEM talent among Liberian youth. Through this partnership, ODC is contributing to the growth and development of young minds who will shape the future with their innovative solutions.

Tackling Global Challenges: Each year, FIRST Global centers its challenge around pressing global issues, aligning with the 14 Grand Challenges for Engineering identified by the National Academy of Engineering. This year's theme focused on addressing some of the planet's most critical challenges, including water, energy, security, medicine, food, climate, and education. "Team Liberia" joins the ranks of global participants dedicated to finding innovative solutions to these vital issues.

Building a Global Community: Participation in FIRST Global goes beyond robotics. It empowers young participants to collaborate, trust one another, and become integral members of a global community. Through this experience, they not only hone their technical skills but also learn the importance of teamwork and cooperation on a global scale.

Jean Marius Yao's Encouraging Gesture: CEO Jean Marius Yao's visit and support send a powerful message about the significance of STEM education and youth development. It underscores the commitment of Orange Liberia and its partner GIZ as well as it's leadership to nurturing the future of Liberia and the world by empowering young minds in science and technology.

We applaud Orange Liberia, GIZ, ODC, and all the mentors, coaches, and supporters who making this incredible journey possible for "Team Liberia." Let's cheer them on as they venture to Singapore and represent Liberia on the global stage!