By Grace Q. Bryant
The Director General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), Dougbeh Chris Nyan, has called on graduates to embrace the challenges ahead and use their education to reshape Liberia’s future.
Dr. Nyan spoke on September 17 at the 104th commencement convocation of the University of Liberia, held at the Fendall Campus.
During the ceremony, the University of Liberia conferred degrees upon 878 graduates from various colleges, including the Thomas J. R. Faulkner College of Science, Technology, Environment, and Climate Change; the William R. Tolbert, Jr. College of Agriculture and Forestry; the College of Engineering; and the David A. Straz-Sinji Technical and Vocational College.
The graduates included 417 candidates from the Thomas J. R. Faulkner College, 292 from the William R. Tolbert, Jr. College, 137 from the College of Engineering, and 32 from the David A. Straz-Sinji College.
In his address, Dr. Nyan expressed optimism about the potential of the graduates but cautioned that the road ahead would not be easy.
He warned that their journey would be filled with challenges, both expected and unforeseen.
“I see the future of Liberia in your faces a generation that will reshape our society and lead us into a future defined by progress, development, and sustainability,” Dr. Nyan remarked.
He encouraged the graduates, emphasizing that while the future is full of hope, it will also present obstacles.
However, he expressed confidence that the graduates are equipped to meet those challenges head-on.
“You are courageous, and I see that innovative spirit in you. You are capable of overcoming any challenge and creating new opportunities where none seem to exist,” he added.
Dr. Nyan reminded the graduates that their role extends beyond Liberia, with a responsibility to reshape the African Continent and contribute to global progress.
Reflecting on the past, he said, “Our generation created paths for scientific innovation, and now it’s your turn to tackle challenges we could not have imagined.”
He called on the graduates to prioritize honesty, integrity, transparency, accountability, and respect in both their personal and professional lives.
He stressed that their success will not only be measured by their professional achievements but also by the integrity they demonstrate.
“The Liberia we seek is only possible when you use your education for the good of the people, not to exploit them. Use science for innovation, not exploitation,” Dr. Nyan urged.
He also emphasized the significance of technological and scientific advancements, noting that graduates today have access to tools his generation did not. “You are now using technologies that allow you to speak to millions at the click of a button. This interconnectivity is your advantage,” he noted.
Dr. Nyan thanked the University of Liberia faculty for their dedication and urged them to continue challenging their students to think critically and conduct research that puts the university on the global map.
“To the graduates, I congratulate you once more and wish you the best as you embark on this new chapter of your life. You have proven that you have what it takes to succeed in this challenging environment. Now go forth and be the change that Liberia so desperately needs,” he emphasized.
Dr. Nyan did not shy away from criticizing past administrations for their misuse of international aid and their failure to address systemic issues.
He warned the graduates that success would not be measured solely by their professional accomplishments but by the integrity with which they conduct themselves.
“Liberia is hungry for ethical professionals guided by compassion and commitment to the greater good,” he stated.
The Acting President of the University, Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh extended appreciation to the parents, sponsors, guardians, and family members who have supported the students throughout their years of preparation.
Addressing the graduates, the Acting President encouraged them to go and be the agriculturists, scientists, and engineers that Liberia needs.
“Be the skillful professionals who combine your hands and minds to make a difference in our one world.” he noted.
