Monrovia, Liberia – The first-ever cybersecurity hackathon in Liberia was successfully held on October 31, 2025, by Starz University and the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MOPT), marking an important turning point for the nation’s ICT industry. The event, which took place at the university’s main campus in Airfield, Sinkor, scores of young tech enthusiasts and innovators fought to solve real-world cybersecurity challenges using cooperation, coding, and problem-solving techniques.
Through the competition, participants were able to use what they had learned in the classroom and encouraged creativity, teamwork, and technical proficiency in digital defense. After several hours of intense competition, four outstanding teams emerged as winners: Zero Day Squad claimed 1st Place, followed by Fsociety in 2nd Place, 707 Error in 3rd Place, and Smartcircle, which won the Best All-Female Team award.
For their outstanding performance, each winning team was given cash awards, medals, certificates, and other recognition. The success of Smartcircle was particularly hailed as an important achievement for women in Liberia’s expanding cybersecurity and technology sector. Dr. Isaac Usung, president of Starz University, praised the Hackathon’s success and emphasized the school’s commitment to fusing theory and practical application.
“This Hackathon demonstrates Starz University’s commitment to bridging theory and practice. We’re not just teaching cybersecurity, we’re building the next generation of digital defenders,” Dr. Usung said.
He also reiterated that Starz is still dedicated to giving students top-notch instruction, cutting-edge training, and practical experience, and that the institution is still at the forefront of Liberia’s digital development.
Speaking as well was Mr. Victor K. Jarlwood Jr., MOPT’s IT/Cybersecurity Specialist and Captain of the Liberia Cyber Warriors Team, who called the occasion a turning point in the country’s digital revolution. “The Cyber Security Hackathon 2025 is more than just a competition; it’s a national effort to prepare Liberia for the challenges of the digital age. Our youth are the foundation of a secured and innovative future,” Jarlwood stated.
He praised the partnership between MOPT and Starz University as a significant step in producing a new generation of cybersecurity professionals prepared to take on the country’s online dangers. Jarlwood praised the assistance of National Cybersecurity Coordinator D. Nalon Kaine and Deputy Minister S. Mohammed D. Massalley, and thanked the university’s College of Information Technology and Cybersecurity Department for their crucial involvement in planning the event.
The Liberia Cyber Warriors Team organized the event, with MOPT and Starz University providing significant institutional support. The 2025 Cybersecurity Hackathon celebrates innovation, young talent, and the nation’s increasing digital resilience, marking a significant moment in Liberia’s ICT and cybersecurity education.
Reported by: Prince Saah
