SUAKOKO, Bong County – Cuttington University President Dr. Romelle A. Horton has announced that the institution is on track to graduate Liberia’s first-ever doctoral degree recipients in 2027, while unveiling plans to expand its graduate academic offerings with a new master’s program in agriculture and additional language degree programs.
Delivering remarks at the university’s 64th Commencement Convocation on its main campus in Suakoko District, Bong County, Dr. Horton described the institution’s doctoral program as a historic milestone for higher education in Liberia.
“Cuttington University continues to hold the distinction of offering the first and only doctoral program in Liberia’s history, and we look forward with immense pride to graduating our inaugural cohort of doctoral students next year—2027,” she said.
The university president also disclosed that Cuttington is preparing to introduce a Master’s degree in Agriculture, aimed at developing a new generation of agricultural professionals capable of driving innovation and food security in Liberia.
“We are preparing to launch a master’s program in agriculture to cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders and innovators,” Dr. Horton announced.
In addition, she revealed that the university is undertaking a comprehensive revitalization of its Language Arts program through the introduction of degree offerings in English, French, and Mandarin, describing the move as part of Cuttington’s commitment to producing globally competitive graduates.
According to Dr. Horton, the new academic initiatives reflect the university’s broader vision of academic excellence, innovation, and international engagement.
“Our initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to academic excellence, global engagement, and preparing graduates to lead and compete on the regional and international stages,” she stated.
Other Major Highlights
Dr. Horton said Cuttington’s innovative Dental Therapy Program continues to address critical shortages in Liberia’s oral healthcare sector by training much-needed professionals.
She also highlighted progress under the university’s Memorandum of Understanding with the Liberian National Police (LNP), noting that a residence for the campus police commander has been fully renovated and occupied, while construction of a police depot with an attached fire service unit has reached the roofing stage.
Once completed, she said, the facility will significantly strengthen emergency response, campus security, and public safety for students, faculty, staff, and surrounding communities.
On academic partnerships, Dr. Horton announced that Cuttington has signed an agreement with the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) to strengthen programs in STEM, Physician Assistant, and Nursing education. She added that discussions are underway to establish a WAEC Tutorial Center at the university, with personnel to be recruited and funded by FAWE.
The university has also entered into a partnership with the Liberian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (LICPA) to provide accounting students with greater exposure to regional professional standards, examination preparation, and internship opportunities through accounting firms across Liberia.
Dr. Horton further claimed that Cuttington currently leads all higher education institutions in Liberia in professional accounting examination pass rates.
Throughout her address, she emphasized that the university’s strategic “G Plan”—representing Greatness, Innovation, and Integrity—continues to guide the institution’s growth after 137 years of service.
“Today marks the end of another successful academic year,” she said. “Our longevity is a testament to the hard work, character, and determination that define Cuttington University.”
The 64th Commencement Convocation celebrated another graduating class while highlighting the university’s ongoing expansion in graduate education, infrastructure, academic partnerships, and professional training programs.
