By: Sylvester Choloplay
Harbel, Margibi County – February 22, 2025.
President Joseph Boakai has pledged his government’s full support in developing Margibi University into a premier institution of higher learning, emphasizing that his administration will work to build and expand the university’s infrastructure.
He also announced plans to engage key corporate partners such as Firestone and China Union to provide the necessary resources for quality education.
Speaking at the university’s 3rd graduation ceremony on Saturday, February 22, 2025, in Harbel, Margibi County, President Boakai underscored the crucial role of education in Liberia’s transformation and assured students, faculty, and administrators of his government’s commitment to expanding and improving the institution.
“As a government, we will continue to seek the collaboration of local and international partners, including corporations such as Firestone and China Union, to ensure that Margibi University remains well-resourced for effective teaching and learning.
We will build this university and provide the necessary support to ensure that it produces graduates who will contribute meaningfully to the development of Liberia”, President Boakai stated.
The President noted that Margibi University’s recent elevation to full university status is a significant achievement, but he warned against complacency. He stressed the need for continuous investment in infrastructure, technology, and faculty development to maintain high academic standards.
“While we congratulate you for the elevation to university status, we need not remind you that this comes with an expectation of performance and output. “You are expected to buckle up and set the bar higher for the goals you pursue,” he said.
President Boakai also cautioned against the unchecked proliferation of universities in Liberia, emphasizing that the Ministry of Education and the National Commission on Higher Education must ensure that all universities meet strict accreditation standards.
He further called for investment in modern learning facilities, including an upgraded library, improved teaching resources, and the integration of advanced information and communication technologies to enhance students’ learning experiences.
Addressing the third graduating class of Margibi University, President Boakai reminded students that their degrees represent not just personal success but also a responsibility to contribute to national development.
“Your graduation today is more than a personal achievement; it is a milestone in the ongoing development of Margibi University and the education system of Liberia,” he told the graduates.
President Boakai concluded his address by reaffirming his government’s commitment to the continuous development of Margibi University.
He pledged to strengthen partnerships, improve resources, and ensure that the university remains a beacon of academic excellence in Liberia.
“We leave you with the assurance that our doors are open. We remain committed to supporting Margibi University, ensuring it continues to grow and maintain high educational standards,”he assured the audience.
The ceremony was attended by Minister of Education, government officials, local authorities, university administrators, faculty members, proud parents, and jubilant graduates, all of whom welcomed the President’s vision for the future of education in Liberia.
With this bold commitment, President Boakai has set a clear agenda for Margibi University’s transformation, ensuring that it not only produces competent graduates but also serves as a key driver of Liberia’s development.