By Amos Harris
The University of Liberia (UL) has reinforced its commitment to academic excellence and national development with the induction of 48 exceptional freshmen into the Honors Scholars Program of the College of Gender Studies and Interdisciplinary Research. This vibrant ceremony, held on Wednesday at the Fendall Campus, served as a cornerstone of the University’s academic calendar. Beyond the induction itself, the event highlighted the College’s 9th Annual Research Symposium and officially launched the activities for the University’s 105th Commencement Convocation, celebrating a unique blend of scholarship, innovation, and leadership.
The newly inducted cohort comprises 40 men and 8 women, each selected from various colleges across the university based strictly on their academic merit during their first year of study. As the 12th cohort since the program’s inception in 2011, these students represent a long-standing tradition of intellectual distinction. The Honors Scholars Program is designed to provide advanced training in interdisciplinary research, equipping the next generation of leaders with the practical skills necessary to address the most pressing challenges facing Liberia today.
Madam Lorpu Garmai Blackie, Dean of the College of Gender Studies and Interdisciplinary Research, described the selection process as grueling and entirely merit-based. To remain in the program, these scholars must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.33 from their sophomore year through graduation. Dean Blackie emphasized that these students are recognized globally for their potential, noting that the program continues to set the standard for research excellence at the University.
The ceremony also provided a platform for five graduating honors scholars to present research aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each scholar underwent a rigorous defense of their work, including a seven-minute presentation followed by a five-minute Q&A session. Among the highlights, Jude Zondoe T. Summerville presented an assessment of groundwater quality in the Chicken Soup Factory community, while Jeremiah J. Doryen examined the impact of gender on women’s political representation in the House of Representatives. Additionally, Vahcelia D. Vah explored the financial implications and potential exploitation within the Miss Earth Liberia pageantry. These presentations underscored the university’s dedication to community-centered research that addresses real-world national priorities.
UL President Layli Maparyan praised the induction as a celebration of the University’s enduring commitment to rigorous scholarship. Framing the event under the theme “Contribution of Equitable Research to Sustainable Development,” Dr. Maparyan argued that research at the university is a public good intended to drive policy reform and social transformation. She noted that when research is inclusive in design and responsive in outcome, it uplifts entire communities. She urged the new inductees to lead with integrity and curiosity, reminding them that their new status is as much a responsibility as it is an honor.
The keynote address, delivered by Dr. Edna Johnny, President of the University of Liberia Faculty Association, challenged the scholars to “reimagine” research. Speaking on the theme of community partnership in an era of crisis, she encouraged students to adopt participatory models that involve local communities directly. This approach ensures that research outcomes are not only academically sound but also relevant and impactful for the people they study.
The ceremony concluded with a palpable sense of optimism, reaffirming the University of Liberia’s role as a primary engine for national development. With 48 new scholars now joined to its ranks, the university continues to nurture the talent and integrity required to navigate Liberia’s future challenges through innovation and evidence-based inquiry.
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