Monrovia, Liberia – In order to create generational prosperity via education and develop their skills and abilities for a better Liberia, Nimba University graduates have been challenged to close societal disparities.
On August 17, 2024, in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, Liberia, during the 8th graduation convocation of Nimba University, Dehpue Y. Zuo, the Deputy Finance Minister for Economic Management of the Ministry of Finance and Development, call on the graduates exert all efforts to bridge the generational gap.
“It is our collective duty to close the wealth gap between generations and develop the skills, talents, and education that will contribute to the creation of a new Liberia.”
He told the graduates, to a standing ovation, that Liberia is working on a national development plan that will see the country through to the completion of the National Vision 2030 and the Global Sustainable Development Goals 2030, as well as the African Agenda 2063, which will aspirationally steer the continent toward development.
In light of this, he stated that the two key development objectives are “ambitious goals,” requiring bold generations to bridge the gaps in the nation’s developmental stages.
“The measures we take to accomplish our individual and group objectives, as well as the fundamental role each of us will play in fostering the drive for reforms, will determine this. It is our collective responsibility to fulfill our obligations as NU graduates, students, teachers, and administration. Modern development is linked to fostering the call for excellence and partnership.”
The graduates were forewarned by the Deputy Finance Minister that innovation and creativity are today the driving forces behind global prosperity. He encouraged the graduates to become intentional in whatever they want to pursue, by planning for competition in their class, community, and national level; and making themselves competitive in whatever they do was important.
“Have the optimistic mindset that you are in the best position to implement improvements, starting with your own family, friends, and neighborhood. You will need to make a name for yourself and stand out in whatever activities or programs you are associated with.”
Hon. Zuo recalled that previous generations had individuals who stood up to ensure that citizens’ social and political rights were upheld. He also mentioned that these individuals deliberately engaged the public in political activism, helped the populace understand their roles and responsibilities, and engaged the public in decision-making.
He maintained that after graduation, the graduates will need to take part in intellectually stimulating activities that will broaden their perspectives and help them develop fresh perspectives on their families, communities, and the nation.
“President Boakai has told us that this is not business as usual, meaning we have to reform our minds and bring in more creativity and innovation to champion reforms and change our society,” the speaker said, making reference to President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Sr. It’s time to work together as a team to overcome the obstacles facing our neighborhoods, counties, and the country rather than whining like babies in every circumstance.
In addition, he pushed the graduates to define their goals, develop a sense of self, and look for role models in the community to gauge their success. He also said that, as a government official, “you have to set yourself apart to do what others are doing to improve lives. As the people’s servant, you have a duty to raise everyone’s standard of living.”
