Grand Gedeh University (GGU), formerly Grand Gedeh County Community College, has graduated 57 students at its 8th Commencement Convocation, while appealing to the Government of Liberia for increased funding to support mobility, daily operations, and institutional development.
The ceremony, held on Saturday, October 17, brought together university officials, government representatives, faculty members, graduates, and other stakeholders.
Established on April 22, 2011, as a community college, GGU has continued to expand its academic and institutional capacity despite challenges, including limited budgetary allocations, a shortage of professional staff, and inadequate resources.
Addressing the gathering, University President Dr. Eric Z. M. Gbotoe said the institution had made progress since his appointment by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai approximately two years ago.
Dr. Gbotoe commended the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning for increasing the university’s budgetary allocation, noting that the additional funding was helping improve infrastructure, recruit qualified professors, and enhance staff incentives.
He also acknowledged Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung for supporting the construction of a modern student center and praised the Grand Gedeh County Legislative Caucus for its continued assistance.
Despite these gains, the university president stressed that mobility and a dedicated operational budget remain major challenges, urging the government to provide additional resources to strengthen daily activities, expand academic programs, and accelerate development.
Dr. Gbotoe further disclosed that the university was working to reactivate and reaccredit its nursing division, which was shut down several years ago due to inadequate facilities and materials.
He said the university was constructing a modern simulation laboratory to help meet the requirements of Liberia’s nursing regulatory authorities.
According to him, internet facilities have been installed on campus, while approximately two-thirds of the university’s facilities have been renovated.
Looking ahead, Dr. Gbotoe announced plans to establish a university radio station in 2027 to provide practical training for mass communication students. He also disclosed plans to construct a modern sports complex.
Meanwhile, keynote speaker and Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation Managing Director, Hon. Mohamed Ali, challenged Liberians to prioritize competence, achievement, and meaningful service over titles and social status.
Speaking on the theme, “From Titles to Service: Prioritizing Competence, Achievement, and National Development Over Status,” Ali questioned a culture in which individuals seek recognition and importance without demonstrating their usefulness to society.
He criticized the tendency to celebrate appointments more than achievements, value titles over competence, and prioritize access to power over the ability to solve problems.
Ali’s message emphasized the need for graduates and professionals to apply their education, skills, and leadership to addressing national challenges and improving the lives of citizens.
