Bong County — Citizens of Bong County on Saturday, May 23, 2026, honored former Bong County Senator and former President of Cuttington University, Henrique Flomo Tokpa, for his longstanding contributions to education and human capacity development in Liberia.
The colorful ceremony, held at the Gbarnga Administration Building, brought together government officials, educators, private sector professionals, traditional leaders, religious organizations, and former sponsored students, many of whom benefited from Dr. Tokpa’s educational and mentorship initiatives during his years of public service and academic leadership.
Speaking during the opening overview, organizer Lepolu Torlon described the event as recognition of Dr. Tokpa’s lifelong commitment to national development and educational empowerment.
“This important occasion highlights the contribution that Dr. Tokpa has made in Liberia in building the human capacity of Liberians,” Torlon said, adding that the ceremony was intended solely to honor Dr. Tokpa and was not politically motivated.
The event featured tributes, speeches, a gowning ceremony, and the presentation of honorary statements recognizing Dr. Tokpa’s impact on education and leadership in Liberia.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Vice President Jeremiah Koung, Prince Menkalo Gbieu thanked Dr. Tokpa for his years of dedicated service to Bong County and Liberia.
“The Vice President asked me to say one thing to Dr. Tokpa — thank you,” Gbieu stated. “Thank you for your services to the community, for preparing a new generation, and for impacting the people of Bong County and Liberia.”
Gbieu also compared Dr. Tokpa to an elderly carpenter whose work speaks louder than words, noting that Dr. Tokpa’s achievements remain visible through the lives he has impacted.
Meanwhile, Bong County Senator Prince Kermue Moye Sr. announced the launch of a scholarship initiative in honor of Dr. Tokpa. Senator Moye disclosed an initial contribution of US$5,000 on behalf of the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs and pledged an additional US$2,000 in his personal capacity to support deserving students.
“We will continue saying thank you all day because Dr. Tokpa helped shape many of our lives,” Senator Moye said.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Romelle Horton praised Dr. Tokpa’s transformative leadership at Cuttington University, noting that his administration expanded access to quality education through scholarships, work-study opportunities, and merit-based academic programs.
Dr. Horton further stated that faculty and staff members were empowered under Dr. Tokpa’s leadership to pursue advanced studies abroad, helping strengthen graduate education and institutional development in Liberia.
Receiving the honor, Dr. Tokpa expressed gratitude to the people of Bong County and reflected on his humble beginnings and years of service.
“I never imagined that people I helped at Cuttington would one day honor me like this,” he said emotionally.
Dr. Tokpa also recalled the challenges of rebuilding Cuttington University following Liberia’s civil conflict, noting that with the support of international partners, church leaders, faculty, and students, the institution was restored and strengthened.
He concluded by encouraging Liberians to continue investing in education and scholarships for young people.
“Education remains one of the greatest tools for transformation,” Dr. Tokpa said. “If we continue supporting young people, Liberia’s future will be brighter.”
