Paynesville, Liberia ~ In a vibrant and inspiring ceremony held on Saturday, September 20, 2025, the Professional Journalism School of Liberia (PJSL) marked a significant milestone in its journey by graduating over 63 students from its flagship journalism and media studies program. The ceremony, held at the Church of Christ near the GSA Road Junction in Paynesville, brought together family, friends, educators, media professionals, and national dignitaries in a celebration of perseverance, excellence, and hope for Liberia’s future media landscape.
This 5th graduation cycle of the institution highlighted not just the academic achievement of the students, but also the school’s growing influence in shaping the next generation of Liberian journalists. The graduates completed an intensive one-year academic and practical training program, comprising three core phases and a mandatory internship designed to ensure hands-on experience in the field.
Guest Speaker Urges Ethical Journalism
Delivering the keynote address was Mr Vesselee Sumo, who served as proxy for the Speaker of the 55th Legislature, Hon. Richard Koon. In his remarks, Mr. Sumo called on the graduates to embrace professionalism and ethical integrity as they step into their careers.
“You are stepping into a noble but demanding profession,” he said. “The weight and responsibility that come with reporting facts require courage ~ courage to speak truth to power. Your role in building a safer and more informed democracy cannot be overstated.”
He emphasized the vital role of journalists in shaping national discourse and promoting accountability, urging the graduates to always prioritize truth, accuracy, and the public good.
PJSL’s Growth and Vision
Founded in 2019 by a coalition of veteran and emerging journalists, PJSL has rapidly risen as a reputable institution for journalism and media training in Liberia. Officially registered with the Liberia Business Registry on November 30, 2019, the school launched its first classes in early 2020 and has since expanded its reach beyond Montserrado County to include Nimba County. There are ongoing plans to extend operations to Grand Bassa and other parts of the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, PJSL Executive Director Mr. Courage J.C. Mulbah lauded the graduates for their dedication and resilience.
“Today is not just a day of celebration; it’s a demonstration of resilience, commitment, and the growing appetite for quality media training in Liberia,” Mulbah said. “We are proud of our students and of the path we are charting toward a more professional and responsible media landscape.”
In a major announcement, Mr. Mulbah revealed the elevation of the institution from a diploma-awarding school to a university-level institution, now to be known as PROJAL University-Colleg. This transition represents a significant leap in the school’s mission to provide advanced and comprehensive media education in Liberia.
As part of the institution’s transformation, Mr. Mulbah named Pastor Edmond N. Tuazama as the new president of PROJAL University-Colleg. Pastor Tuazama. “Today, we want to announce to you Mr. Edmond Tuazama as the president of PROJAL University-Colleg” Mulbah declared.
In his acceptance remarks, Mr. Tuazama expressed gratitude for the opportunity and outlined a vision of unity, growth, and academic excellence.
“I am honored to have been considered for this position and I am excited to accept this appointment with confidence and gratitude,” he said. “Together, we can honor our shared mission and continue to create a nurturing environment for all involved. I look forward to working alongside each faculty member, staff, and student to build something truly impactful.”
He also extended thanks to the founder, Mr. Chris Mulbah, and the board for their trust, adding that the new leadership is committed to steering the institution into a future of greater academic and professional relevance.
Looking Ahead
With over 300 alumni already making their mark in media houses, NGOs, and communication departments across Liberia and beyond, the transformation of PJSL into PROJAL University-Colleg marks a new chapter in Liberian journalism education. The institution’s leadership affirmed its commitment to expanding curriculum offerings, increasing regional access, and fostering a new breed of journalists who are both skilled and socially responsible.
As the curtains closed on the graduation ceremony, the air was filled with optimism and pride. For the 63 new graduates, the day was a culmination of hard work and the beginning of a journey to inform, inspire, and influence.
