Yekepa’, Nimba – Over the weekend, the 18th Graduation and Honoring Ceremony of the ArcelorMittal Liberia School System in Yekepa, Nimba County, celebrated the remarkable accomplishments of 27 students who received high scores in the national public examinations.
27 out of the thirty-three students who took the test had outstanding results, placing the school and, consequently, Nimba County, among the best in the region. Parents, teachers, community leaders, and executives from ArcelorMittal Liberia joined the graduates during the ceremony, which took place at the ABC University auditorium in Yekepa, to honor their dedication and hard work.
Nimba County University President Dr. Jesse Noah Mongrue thanked the graduates and encouraged them to continue their education and technical skills training in order to meet the needs of the modern workforce in his keynote address.
According to Dr. Mongrue, technological abilities, creativity, and knowledge are what drive the modern world. “With education as one of your most valuable tools, you must keep in mind that your success is determined by how you use the knowledge you have acquired, not by your degree. You are responsible for your own future.”
The graduates were encouraged by Dr. Mongrue to use the increasing quantity of universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) establishments that are currently accessible in Nimba County and across Liberia.
He pointed out that students previously have to go far to get higher education. Opportunities in Yekepa and other areas of the county are available right now. “Don’t be comfortable; consider this the start of your path to greatness.”
He also emphasized that education should be a force for good, reminding them of their moral and civic duty to support the growth of the country.
According to Dr. Mongrue, the country faces difficulties ranging from unemployment and poverty to environmental deterioration. “Your inventiveness, honesty, and dedication are needed in Liberia. For the benefit of the next generations, you must contribute to the transformation of our society.”
In his remarks, ArcelorMittal Liberia School System Principal Mr. Juwle E. Kumeh emphasized his team’s commitment to upholding academic achievement and expressed delight in the graduates’ performance.
Principal Kumeh declared, “We are proud of what our students have accomplished. Our committed teachers, encouraging parents, and diligent children worked together to achieve this success. We’ll keep developing the brains of Liberia’s future leaders.”
Mr. Miracle Tarley, speaking on behalf of the Parents Teachers Association (PTA), praised ArcelorMittal Liberia and the administration for their ongoing commitment to education. He urged the company to help students with their transportation needs by offering more logistical support, such as a school bus.
“A lot of our children have to walk a long way to school. A school bus would have a significant impact and further show the company’s dedication to our children’s well-being,” Mr. Tarley remarked
As parents and community members cheered the graduates as they got their diplomas, the occasion was full with emotional and proud moments. A number of students received awards for their leadership, community involvement, and academic achievement.
The valedictorian, Miss Comfort Y. Dolo, spoke on behalf of the graduates and expressed gratitude to ArcelorMittal Liberia, the instructors, and her parents for their steadfast support.
She emphasized that “today marks a fresh start rather than the end. Knowing that we have been adequately equipped to handle the challenges that lie ahead, we will proceed with confidence.”
In addition to cultural performances, the ceremony ended with the awarding of certificates of honor to exceptional employees for their commitment and service.
As ArcelorMittal Liberia keeps growing its business in Nimba County, one of its most significant community development projects is the school system, which helps to mold a new generation of young Liberians who are educated, talented, and innovative.
