Remarks By H.E. Dr. George Manneh Weah, President Of The Republic Of Liberia At The Graduation Ceremony Of The Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI) In Marshall, Margibi County On September 5, 2019.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen:

First of all, I want you to know that it is a pleasure for me to be here in Marshall City today, at this Graduation Ceremony of the Liberia Maritime Training Institute.

I must say that I have already noted many changes and improvements in the facilities since I attended your graduation program last year. I want to thank the management and staff for these signs of progress, and wish to encourage you to continue to invest in the growth and expansion of this very important educational establishment.

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:

The Liberia Maritime Training Institute has a long history dating as far back as 1986, when its creation was funded by international shipowners and fellow Mano River countries. While LMTI was initially a source of pride for Liberia, it was unfortunately abandoned due to the civil crisis in 1990.

After several unsuccessful attempts to revitalize LMTI, LISCR was finally tasked with its re-development and management. As a successful manager of the Liberian Ship Registry, it was felt that LISCR had the capability and dedication to take on this difficult challenge. In my view, they have risen to the challenge, and have done an excellent job in revitalizing the Institute.

As I said earlier, I am pleased to see all that has been achieved since my last visit to LMTI. This batch of LMTI cadets are the first recipients of associate degrees in marine engineering in our national history. We should all be proud of their accomplishments today.

I appreciate LISCR for its commitment to these young cadets that has seen them through to the completion of the degrees. But I am also especially thankful for your efforts in facilitating employment with esteemed local and international companies for each and every one of today’s graduates. Kindly extend my gratitude to all of the organizations that have partnered in the future employment and success of these graduates.

The Pro-poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development, which serves as out national development plan, is a top priority for my Government, and this achievement is important for empowering youth and creating economic opportunities for Liberians.

The education and professional skills that are provided here at LMTI are essential to the development of our national work-force. It is my hope that LMTI will continue to produce such excellent graduates who will be marketable and employable.

It is for this reason that my Government is committed to supporting LMTI’s continued growth through the Liberian Maritime Authority. The success of the Institute’s management and students here today is inspiring and a source of pride.

To the Class of 2019, please accept my personal congratulations for a job well done. Your hard-work and discipline, as exemplified during your time here, will continue to be the key to your success, as you pursue your professional careers. As the first generation of the revitalized LMTI, your Country is proud of all that you have achieved.

I thank you.