By Christian Appleton By Christian Appleton
Harper, Maryland County — The Vice Chancellor and Principal of the University of Johannesburg (UJ), Dr. Letlhokwa George Mpedi, delivered a powerful charge to the 12th graduating class of William V. S. Tubman University (TU) on Monday, urging them to seize opportunities and utilize their education as a force for transformation in Liberia and across the African continent.
Speaking at TU’s 12th Commencement Convocation, Dr. Mpedi emphasized that education must serve as a catalyst for empowerment, innovation, and societal progress.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the signing of a historic five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Tubman University and the University of Johannesburg.
This partnership is expected to significantly strengthen TU’s academic programs and expand opportunities for students and faculty across both institutions, marking a crucial step in TU’s regional engagement.
In a passionate tribute, Dr. Mpedi commended TU President Rev. Dr. Olu Q. Menjay for his transformative leadership and commitment to elevating higher education in Liberia.
“He means business. He has a good vision for this university. We came here because we believe in what he wants to do for TU, for Liberia, and for Africa,” Dr. Mpedi stated.
He challenged Africans to celebrate their visionary leaders while they are still alive, stressing: “Let us appreciate and support Dr. Menjay while he is still standing.”
Dr. Mpedi also advised graduates to avoid becoming “academic snobs,” urging them to use their qualifications to uplift others and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Reflecting on a story shared by Dr. Menjay, the UJ Vice Chancellor highlighted the longstanding historical connection between Liberia and South Africa, tracing it back to the anti-apartheid struggle.
“In 1962, during the darkest days of apartheid, a young freedom fighter—Nelson Mandela—traveled across Africa seeking support,” he recalled. “Among the African leaders who stood with him was President William V. S. Tubman of Liberia. This university bears the name of a man who believed in the possibility of a free South Africa.”
Dr. Mpedi noted that this legacy of solidarity must now evolve into deeper academic engagement and collaboration across the continent.
Describing education as “the great liberator,” Dr. Mpedi asserted that it not only underpinned Africa’s anti-colonial struggles but also continues to equip young Africans to solve modern challenges, including climate change, inequality, and technological disruption.
He delivered a powerful call for a paradigm shift within African academia. “African universities must move from the periphery of knowledge consumption to the center of knowledge production,” he urged. “This requires confidence in our intellectual traditions and investment in research infrastructure.”
He also applauded Liberia’s Ministry of Education for promoting values of accountability, excellence, diligence, transparency, and moral rectitude—principles he said align directly with UJ’s mission of societal impact.
In his response, Rev. Dr. Prof. Olu Q. Menjay expressed deep gratitude to the South African delegation for strengthening TU’s international partnerships through the landmark MOU.
He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the university’s academic profile and urged students to strive for excellence, noting the availability of scholarship opportunities on a merit basis.
“Our commitment is to cultural diversity, academic excellence, and institutional advancement,” Dr. Menjay stated.
The commencement ceremony marks a significant milestone, not only for the graduating class but also for Tubman University’s expanding role in regional and international academic collaboration.
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