Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Entrepreneurship and Investment Bank Management Company (YEIB-MANCO), Joseph Fatorma Sando, has challenged Liberian graduates to look beyond academic certificates and use their education to create entrepreneurial opportunities, solve societal problems, and contribute to national development.
Sando said education must translate into practical results, urging young people to embrace excellence, integrity, resilience, entrepreneurship, and community service as essential tools for transforming Liberia.
He made the call on Saturday, October 17, while delivering the keynote address at the graduation and closing ceremony of more than 50 students of St. James Foundation Elementary, Junior and Senior High School in Peace Community, Upper Caldwell, Montserrado County.
Speaking on the theme “Beyond the Diploma,” Sando outlined five principles he said should guide the graduates as they begin the next chapter of their academic and professional journeys.
He emphasized that graduation should mark the beginning of lifelong learning rather than the end of education, encouraging the students to pursue excellence in whatever careers they choose.
“Do not just do things, learn to do them very well. Excellence should be your signature,” he told the graduates, stressing that mediocrity has no place in an increasingly competitive world.
The YEIB-MANCO chief executive also warned that academic qualifications alone cannot guarantee lasting success without integrity and good character.
He urged the graduates to remain honest and trustworthy, even when doing so becomes difficult, arguing that integrity is essential to building a sustainable future.
On entrepreneurship and innovation, Sando challenged the Class of 2026 to become problem-solvers who can identify challenges within their communities and develop practical solutions.
He said Liberia needs young people who can transform their knowledge and ideas into opportunities rather than simply complain about the country’s challenges.
Sando further cautioned the graduates that their journey ahead would involve setbacks, disappointments, and failures, urging them not to surrender when confronted with difficulties.
He encouraged them to cultivate resilience, determination, and discipline to overcome obstacles and pursue their ambitions.
Addressing the importance of community service, Sando called on the graduates to give back to Peace Community, Upper Caldwell, and Liberia by volunteering, mentoring younger people, and participating in community development initiatives.
He stressed that the true value of education should be measured not only by personal achievements but also by its impact on society.
Sando also urged the graduates to embrace patriotism and use their skills to contribute to Liberia’s development, noting that the country’s future depends on a generation committed to ethical leadership, innovation, and service.
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