Commencement Address Delivered By His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. President of the Republic of Liberia at the 2025 Graduation Ceremony of the Margibi University,Harbel City, Margibi County, Liberia

Madam Minister of Education;

Government Officials;

County and Municipal Authorities;

Esteemed Guests;

Margibi University President Dr. Joseph Isaac and Hardworking Administration and Faculty Members;

Proud Parents and, Most Importantly, the Jubilant First Graduates of Margibi University;

Our Friends in the Media;

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen:

 As we forge ahead to transform Liberia’s future, it is always a great pleasure to share in the achievement of young Liberians who have dedicated years to acquiring knowledge and skills, all in preparation to serve their country and uplift their communities.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the President of the University, Dr. Joseph Isaac, the Administration, the faculty, and the entire Margibi University family for your kind invitation to speak on this occasion celebrating this history-making and jubilant graduating class.

The history of education in Margibi County reflects resilience and progress, beginning with the Booker Washington Institute, established in the 1920s as one of Liberia’s first vocational schools when there were hardly enough educational institutions in the county and the country.

This institution laid the foundation for vocational and technical education in Africa. Building on this success, several other schools, including Harbel Multilateral School—later known as Margibi College—expanded educational opportunities.

Today, Margibi University is a proud symbol of higher learning in the region, continuing the legacy of educating young people.

Ladies and gentlemen, before I offer my congratulations to these wonderful graduates, let me take a moment to reflect and share some thoughts that will ensure Margibi University continues to fulfill its mission of developing young people to contribute to the transformation of our society.

The role of Margibi University and other educational institutions in Liberia at this time of globalization and rapid technological advancement cannot be overstated.

As our country faces numerous challenges to compete with the rest of the world, educational institutions like Margibi University have the power to reshape the future by nurturing the minds and talents of our youth—future leaders who will guide Liberia into a new era of growth and prosperity.

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. Be careful not to become complacent by the elevation and rest on your laurels.

We must continue to invest in and strengthen this institution, as we must do for all higher education institutions across the country, to ensure they maintain and surpass the highest educational standards. This is why we must be cautious about the proliferation of institutions claiming university status.

The accreditation of educational institutions as universities should be a thorough process, grounded in clear, well-defined criteria.

The mushrooming of substandard universities in this country must be addressed head-on by the Ministry of Education and the National Commission on Higher Education because it is unjust and undermines the development of the country.  The children of this country deserve the best.

We must remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering quality education that equips our students to lead with excellence.

Technical training and career mentoring are vital motivators for success in the lives of young people. Therefore, Margibi University should continue to engage qualified faculty, trainers, and mentors.

It is also essential that Margibi University continues to enhance its infrastructure and capacity. This includes an upgraded library, the integration of modern information and communication technologies, and the development of teaching resources that will provide the best learning experience for students.

As technology evolves, we must ensure that our education system is aligned with global standards and prepares students for future challenges.

Lastly, financial support is equally vital for the long-term sustainability of this 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 support you to continue contributing to Liberia’s educational and economic development.

Now, to you, my dear graduates: Today, you stand to begin a new chapter in your lives.

As the third graduating class of Margibi University and the first to graduate since the institution’s elevation to university status, you have set a high standard of excellence. You have accomplished something truly remarkable, and for this, you should be proud.

Your graduation today is more than a personal achievement; it is also a milestone in the ongoing development of Margibi University, and indeed, the education system of Liberia. The knowledge and skills you have acquired here are expected to serve as a foundation for your contribution to the public good.

The leadership you will provide is also important. The world today is marked by uncertainty and transformation, but it is full of possibilities. Earning your degree places you in a unique position to help lead Liberia into a future that is prosperous and just. You are now part of a proud legacy that is Margibi University!

I know that many of you have faced significant obstacles during your educational journey. As the late Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “It is not your environment; it is you.”

The challenges you face in life should not define you. What defines you is how you respond to those challenges. You have the power to turn obstacles into opportunities. The key is perseverance, a positive mindset, and a relentless pursuit of progress.

Remember, challenges are not unique to any one person. Whether rich or poor, everyone faces them. It is how you confront those challenges, how you stay focused, and how you remain committed to your goals that will determine your success. Surround yourselves with mentors, seek guidance when needed, and always strive to be your best self.

Always express gratitude to those who have supported you along the way—your parents, guardians, teachers, mentors, and friends. They have all played an important role in helping you reach this milestone.

Today, as you celebrate your accomplishments, take a moment to acknowledge the love and support that have fueled your journey.

My charge to you is simple: strive to reach your full potential. Set ambitious goals, work tirelessly toward them, and never settle for mediocrity. As the Good Book says, “From whom much is given, much is expected.” Much has been given to you through your education. Now, much is expected of you. It is time to go forth and uplift Liberia.

As a government, 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.

I commend the Administration and Faculty of Margibi University for this remarkable program. I hope that you will continue to work toward achieving your mission in the years to come.

Once again, I congratulate you, the graduating class of Margibi University! Your achievements are not only evidence of your hard work but also the vision of this university and how we must prepare for the future of Liberia. Go forth and make us proud.