Ebenezer S. Morlia: Dux of AME University’s 24th Graduating Class Reflects on Journey of Perseverance
Ebenezer S. Morlia, the Dux (valedictorian) of the African Methodist Episcopal University (AMEU) 24th graduating class, delivered a powerful and inspirational message to young Liberians during his graduation address. Reflecting on his academic journey, Morlia recounted his rise from humble beginnings in Clara Town to achieving the highest academic honors at AMEU. His journey underscores the transformative power of resilience, discipline, and community support.
Morlia shared that, as a child raised in the slums of Clara Town, his educational journey began with significant challenges. His mother singlehandedly supported his early education, enrolling him in kindergarten at Rev. C.W. Duncan United Methodist School. “I faced struggles from an early age,” he shared, “but my mother’s unwavering support motivated me.” By fifth grade, he had already demonstrated academic excellence, winning the school’s Spelling Bee competition. This win earned him the chance to compete in Liberia’s National Spelling Bee, where he secured third place in 2011.
Following his success in the Spelling Bee, Morlia received a scholarship from the Joseph Jenkins Roberts Educational Foundation (JJREF), which fully funded his education through college. In 2015, he graduated from junior high as class Dux. Determined to continue his education, he moved to Brewerville to live with his father and stepmother, enrolling at St. Mary’s Catholic High School. There, he continued to excel academically, earning recognition as the top student in all subjects and representing the school in various academic competitions. “I put in every effort to excel, both for myself and for my family,” Morlia stated.
In 2018, he graduated as Dux of St. Mary’s Catholic High School and received honors in eight subjects, including Mathematics, Chemistry, and Physics. However, his journey was not without setbacks. That same year, he faced a major disappointment, failing the national WASSCE exams. “Failing WASSCE was devastating,” he admitted, “but I did not give up.” The following year, he retook the exams, passing all subjects with flying colors.
Supported by JJREF and fueled by a passion for science, Morlia enrolled at AME University in 2020, majoring in Biology and Chemistry to become a biochemist. “I committed myself to academic excellence,” he recalled, “studying tirelessly to fulfill my goals.” His dedication paid off, as he consistently earned a 4.0 GPA for his first three semesters.
Beyond academics, Morlia broke stereotypes by engaging in student politics, believing that science students should not be limited to the classroom. He joined the Strategic Thinkers, a campus political group, and served in various leadership roles, including as President of the Sophomore Class and Acting President of the Student Governing Council. “I wanted to inspire others by balancing academics and leadership,” he explained.
In addition to his studies, Morlia began tutoring fellow students in subjects like Mathematics and Chemistry, eventually becoming a Teaching Assistant at AMEU. He also represented Liberia at international conferences across Africa, strengthening his vision of positively impacting his country.
As he accepted his honor as Dux of the 24th graduating class, Morlia expressed gratitude for the support of family, friends, professors, and mentors who guided him. He dedicated his achievements to his community, especially young Liberians in underprivileged areas. “To those in Clara Town and Logan Town, this title is for you. Let my journey motivate you,” he urged.
Morlia’s remarkable achievements, culminating in graduating with Summa Cum Laude honors in Biology and Chemistry, offer a beacon of hope to young Liberians facing similar hardships. His journey stands as a testament to the resilience and determination needed to overcome adversity and achieve greatness.
