By: Figo Mansaray | Contributing Writer
Gbarnga, Bong County |May 17, 2026 | Liberia has successfully hosted its first student-led Chemistry Symposium in Gbarnga, Central Liberia, an event many education stakeholders say marks important progress for science and STEM education in the country.
The symposium brought together more than 750 students from grades 10 through 12 under the theme, “Applying Chemistry for Problem Solving, Innovation, and Sustainable Development.”
The event was organized by Liberian Chemistry educator Adam J. Kallon and focused on promoting practical science learning among students across Liberia.
According to the organizer, the initiative was created to address major challenges affecting Chemistry education, including the lack of laboratories, shortage of science equipment and chemicals, overcrowded classrooms, and limited training opportunities for science teachers.
Mr. Kallon explained that many students in Liberia are forced to study Chemistry mainly through theory because schools often lack the resources needed for practical experiments and laboratory activities.
During the symposium, students presented several hands-on Chemistry demonstrations aimed at solving real-world problems and encouraging innovation through science.
Some of the presentations included water purification through filtration, the use of natural indicators to identify acids and bases, gas-producing chemical reactions, soap making through saponification, reaction-rate experiments, and Chemistry applications in sustainable agriculture.
Speaking during the event, Mr. Kallon said the symposium was designed to help students move beyond memorization and become more creative, confident, and involved in scientific inquiry and experimentation.
He noted that the initiative also supports the Ministry of Education’s Chemistry curriculum, which encourages laboratory skills, critical thinking, creativity, research, and the practical application of scientific knowledge.
Participants and education observers praised the symposium as a groundbreaking initiative that could strengthen Liberia’s STEM culture and inspire more young people to pursue careers in science, innovation, and research across the country.
