By Rocheford T. Gardiner
Harper, Liberia — As internet penetration rapidly expands across Liberia, bringing unprecedented connectivity to its citizens, it also introduces a wave of complex digital vulnerabilities. In response to this shifting landscape, the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) has officially launched its nationwide “Cybersecurity Marathon”—a massive, ongoing grassroots campaign designed to equip the country’s youth with the tools necessary to navigate the digital world safely.
Far from a traditional running race, this “marathon” represents an extensive, multi-county relay of educational outreach, interactive workshops, and community engagement. Spearheaded by LTA Commissioner Angela Cassell-Bush, who oversees International Gateway Services and Internet Governance, the initiative aims to bridge the digital safety divide by taking critical cybersecurity awareness out of the capital city and deep into Liberia’s rural counties.
Empowering the Next Generation
The core focus of the LTA’s campaign is Liberia’s digital natives—specifically junior high students in grades 7 through 9—alongside school administrators. As young people increasingly access social media, online research tools, and digital communication platforms, they become prime targets for online scams, cyberbullying, identity theft, and data privacy violations.
Recognizing that government action alone cannot solve the problem, the LTA has built a robust coalition to drive the initiative. The regulatory body is executing the marathon in close collaboration with major corporate and civic partners, including Telecel Liberia, the Liberia Cyber Warriors Team, and the Liberia Girl Guides Association. Together, these organizations are delivering practical, age-appropriate training on password security, safe browsing habits, and responsible social media behavior.
High Stakes and Academic Rewards in Bong County
The marathon recently reached a major milestone in Gbarnga, Bong County, where hundreds of students gathered for a high-intensity, interactive digital safety session. Five major local secondary schools participated in a competitive cybersecurity quiz and Q&A panel designed to test their newly acquired knowledge.
To underscore the gravity of the initiative and incentivize academic excellence, LTA Chairperson Clarence K. Massaquoi attended the event. In a surprise announcement that energized the room, Chairperson Massaquoi awarded 20 full academic scholarships to the top-performing students who demonstrated exceptional understanding during the digital safety drill.
“Cybersecurity is not just a technical issue; it is a national security and educational priority,” Massaquoi stated during the event. He emphasized that protecting the minds and futures of Liberia’s youth is paramount as the country transitions into a digital economy.
The Race Continues: to Maryland County
The LTA has made it clear that the Gbarnga event is just one leg of a long journey. The “Cybersecurity Marathon” is intentionally structured as a rolling campaign to ensure no region is left behind. Organizers have confirmed that the outreach team currently in Maryland County, as the initiative continues to push toward the borders of the country.
LTA officials view digital safety not as a one-time workshop, but as an ongoing marathon that requires continuous vigilance, adaptive learning, and strong partnerships between the government, schools, and parents.
As the campaign heads south, the LTA is urging local community leaders, religious institutions, and guardians to join the effort in reinforcing cyber hygiene at home, ensuring that Liberia’s digital transformation remains safe, secure, and prosperous for the next generation.
