HARBEL CITY, Margibi County – Liberia’s Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration, Dr. Ibrahim Nyei, has challenged graduates of Margibi University to embrace lives of integrity, humility and service, declaring that the nation’s future depends on principled leaders committed to transforming society.
Dr. Nyei delivered the keynote address on behalf of Foreign Affairs Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti during the university’s fourth convocation on Saturday, June 27, where 85 students received bachelor’s degrees across six colleges. The ceremony also highlighted significant institutional growth, with University President Dr. Joseph T. Isaac reporting major gains in enrollment, academic programs and international partnerships.
Addressing the graduates, Dr. Nyei reminded them that earning a university degree carries responsibilities beyond personal achievement.
“You stand today on the threshold of a new chapter. You are not merely receiving certificates and degrees. You are receiving your solemn charge,” he said. “You are being called to carry forward the values of learning, character, responsibility and service into a world that is full of promise but also marked by profound challenges.”
He noted that the world is confronted by climate change, technological disruption, political instability and other global challenges, but stressed that these difficulties also present opportunities for innovation, leadership and meaningful service.
According to Dr. Nyei, education should be viewed not only as a means of personal advancement but as preparation to solve societal problems and improve lives.
“Our country needs graduates who are not only skilled but principled, not only ambitious but compassionate, not only educated but committed to the public good,” he said. “Liberia needs women and men who will bring integrity into public service, excellence into professional life, creativity into enterprise, honesty into leadership and dignity into human relationships.”
He urged the graduates to contribute their talents across key sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, technology, business, diplomacy and public administration, emphasizing that Liberia’s development depends on the active participation of its young professionals.
The Deputy Minister also warned against sacrificing ethical values for personal gain, saying character remains the foundation of lasting success.
Encouraging lifelong learning, Dr. Nyei said graduates must continually improve their knowledge and skills to remain relevant in an increasingly changing world.
Presenting the university’s annual report, President Dr. Joseph T. Isaac announced that Margibi University has experienced remarkable growth over the past 18 months. Student enrollment increased from 352 in 2024 to 701 in 2025 and has now reached 800 in 2026, with the institution projecting an enrollment of 1,000 students by next year.
Dr. Isaac also reported an increase in graduates, from 68 in 2025 to 85 this year, while projecting that more than 100 students will graduate in 2027. He said the university currently operates seven colleges offering 27 academic programs, with the College of Business and Public Administration accounting for the highest enrollment at 22 percent, followed by the College of Engineering at 17 percent.
He disclosed that the university has reactivated its internship program, with approximately 40 percent of students currently participating in internship placements to strengthen practical learning and workforce preparedness.
Despite the progress, Dr. Isaac appealed for greater government support, noting that Margibi University continues to receive funding based on its former status as a community college.
“Margibi University was funded as a Community College, but we have grown into a University. We need government support and increased funding to develop the institution,” he said.
The university president also highlighted several development partnerships, including donations of laptops, printers and five shipping containers from Maersk Liberia to expand office space. He further announced the completion of a modern Innovation and Computer Laboratory financed by NASSCORP.
On international collaboration, Dr. Isaac said partnerships with Taorski University in the United States have enabled two faculty members to pursue doctoral studies in Engineering, while another faculty member is preparing to begin a Ph.D. program through a partnership with Covenant University in Nigeria.
The fourth convocation brought together government officials, university administrators, faculty members, parents, graduates and guests to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026 while reaffirming Margibi University’s commitment to expanding access to quality higher education in Liberia.
