By Emmanuel M. Kangar, Jr.
Margibi County — The Post Manager of Roberts International Airport (RIA), James Mulbah, has called on newly trained aviators to embrace entrepreneurship and innovation as a pathway to transforming Liberia’s aviation sector.
Mr. Mulbah made the statement on Friday, May 1, 2026, when he delivered the keynote address at the third commencement convocation of the Liberia Aviation Training Institute (LATI). The ceremony, held at the Time Royal Ambassador Hotel, saw the graduation of forty students trained in various aviation disciplines.
Speaking on the theme, “Building the Next Generation of Aviation Entrepreneurs,” Mr. Mulbah urged graduates to shift their mindset from job-seeking to job creation. He emphasized that entrepreneurship fosters independence and self-sustainability, key ingredients for national development.
“The future of Liberia’s aviation sector does not only depend on workers, but on builders,” he said. “You must think beyond employment and begin creating opportunities within aviation services.”
He encouraged the graduates to explore business ventures in areas such as passenger services, flight operations, and safety management, noting that Liberia’s aviation industry remains in an emerging stage with vast untapped potential.
Mr. Mulbah further highlighted the core values necessary for entrepreneurial success, including discipline, integrity, innovation, vision, and resilience. He advised graduates to collaborate and form enterprises capable of delivering quality aviation services across the country.
“You can work as a team and establish firms that will contribute meaningfully to the sector,” he added. “All it takes is creativity and determination.”
The Roberts International Airport Post Manager also commended LATI’s leadership, particularly its Chief Executive Officer, James Lomol, and the institution’s staff for their role in training and empowering young Liberians in aviation.
The event brought together key aviation stakeholders, business leaders, local authorities, and family members who gathered to celebrate the achievements of the graduates.
The forty graduates received certificates in disciplines including Passenger and Customer Service, Flight Operations and Aircraft Weight and Balance, as well as Aviation Safety.
The ceremony marks another milestone for LATI as it continues to build a skilled workforce aimed at strengthening Liberia’s aviation industry.
