By Laurina B. Lormia
President Joseph Boakai has urged students to view education as both a privilege and a responsibility, emphasizing that success is measured not only by academic achievements but also by character and integrity.
Speaking at the 73rd Annual Council Meeting of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, President Boakai encouraged students to strive for excellence, work diligently, and remain committed to their dreams.
He underscored the importance of hard work and perseverance in shaping Liberia’s future, calling on young people to take their education seriously as they prepare to contribute meaningfully to national development.
“For more than half a century, WAEC has been at the forefront of educational assessment in West Africa, ensuring that students receive credible and standardized examinations,” he noted. “WAEC has played a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability, and fairness in academic assessments across the region.”
President Boakai lauded WAEC’s resilience and the dedication of educators in nurturing future leaders. He reminded students that their success is not only defined by their grades but also by their character.
“Education is a privilege as well as a responsibility,” he stated. “Your achievements will be measured not only by your academic performance but also by the integrity you uphold. Strive for excellence, work hard, and dare to make your dreams a reality,” he added.
President Boakai also highlighted the need for inclusive education, emphasizing that every child, regardless of their circumstances, deserves access to quality learning. He acknowledged the challenges faced by students with disabilities and called for inclusive examination policies and practices.
“As we embrace the digital age, we must adapt our educational methods to integrate technology and foster digital literacy among our students,” he said. He urged WAEC to prioritize accessibility by implementing accommodations such as extended testing time, alternative formats, and accessible testing locations for students with disabilities.
“By breaking down these barriers, we can create an educational landscape where every learner is empowered to reach their full potential,” he added. “Let us work together to make this vision a reality. I invite WAEC to collaborate with us in championing the rights of all learners as we strive for an equitable education system,” he stressed.
President Boakai concluded by reinforcing the transformative power of education. Quoting the late South African statesman Nelson Mandela, he said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
He urged Liberians to remember that the nation’s strength lies in uplifting and empowering every citizen. “Let this 73rd Anniversary of WAEC ignite a renewed passion for education in our hearts,” he said.