In a remarkable achievement for Liberia’s academic community, Forkpah Pewee, the esteemed Chairman of the Public Health Department at the University of Liberia, has been appointed as the International Public Information Officer for the Graduate Public Health Department at the Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP).
This prestigious appointment marks the first time a Liberian has been selected to serve in such a significant academic leadership role at the institution.
Pewee’s appointment to the alumni board of AUP is a testament to his extensive contributions to public health education both within Liberia and beyond.
In a statement, the AUP Graduate School’s Public Health Department praised Pewee for his exemplary academic performance and commitment during his studies, noting that he left a lasting impression through his dedication to advancing public health knowledge.
“This appointment reflects the deep trust and confidence that both local and international communities have placed in your capabilities,” the AUP communication emphasized, underscoring the impact of Pewee’s academic and professional journey.
Reflecting on the honor, Pewee expressed his surprise and gratitude, attributing the recognition to his unwavering commitment to improving Liberia’s public health sector.
“This recognition is a result of years of dedicated service to humanity and the special grace of God,” he remarked in an interview with Verity News. “I am deeply grateful to my alma mater, the Adventist University of the Philippines, for this opportunity to serve my fellow graduates on an international platform. Education, after all, is about solving problems.”
Since completing his graduate studies in the Philippines, Pewee has been an active force in advancing public health education in Liberia. He has played a pivotal role in shaping public health curricula, participating in forums, and leading discussions aimed at improving health outcomes across the nation.
Notably, he recently authored a public health textbook, which is currently under review by the Ministry of Education for potential inclusion in the lower elementary division’s curriculum.
Pewee’s contributions extend beyond the classroom. During the inception of the Joseph Nyumah Boakai administration, he actively supported the President’s Annual Address by advocating for the full implementation of the FOAP Concept of Vicious Circle of Health—a public health model he developed.
The FOAP, which stands for Field Observation for Accurate Practicum, is a four-stage phenomenological approach designed to combat unhealthy environmental practices and promote community health.
Pewee revealed that ongoing research on the FOAP Concept is expected to culminate in a publication by 2024.
Highlighting the importance of comprehensive sanitation measures, Pewee emphasized that true sanitation extends beyond merely constructing public toilets to combat open defecation. Instead, it involves a holistic approach to maintaining clean streets and homes by ensuring proper waste disposal, thorough cleaning, and the prevention of practices that spread disease.
Pewee’s leadership in public health is also demonstrated through his hands-on approach. Recently, he led a team of Public Health students from the University of Liberia on a medical mission to Nyanvolah Village, which lies on the border between Margibi and Bong Counties. The mission focused on raising health awareness in more than three surrounding towns and villages.
It included health education, blood pressure and eye health screenings, and informative sessions on sexually transmitted diseases, malaria, and the consequences of teenage pregnancy.
As he embarks on this new international role, Pewee has expressed his deep appreciation to the AUP Graduate School Public Health Department for the trust placed in him.
He has pledged to continue his efforts in promoting public health not only in Liberia but on a global scale.
