By Anthony Q. Jiffan, Jr.
MONROVIA – The Smythe University College on Saturday, November 2, 2024 graduated its 20th graduating class which had approximately 350 graduates from the College of Health Sciences, specifically from the Department of Nursing with over eighty percent being females.
The class which is named and styled “Tweh Jebo” a Kru phrase meaning “manage it” was the 20th graduating class that offers associate degree to students from the institution which is set to graduate its first badge of students with bachelor degree in December this year.
Speaking as a keynote speaker on behalf of Vice President Jeremiah Kpang Koung, his chief of staff Prince Menkalo Gbieu urged the graduates to manage what they have learned for the future and betterment of society.
Mr. Gbieu described Smythe University College, which established in 1999, as a beacon of hope and opportunities, nurturing the skills, talents, and knowledge of young people across Liberia.
According to him, the institution has remained steadfast in its mission to equip students with the tools they need to thrive in their careers and to serve their communities.
He noted that the achievements of the university represent a milestone in our collective effort to strengthen Liberia’s healthcare and to build a healthier, more prosperous society.
“As we look back over the past 170 years, we recognize that while Liberia has made strides, we have much ground left to cover in terms of health service delivery” he asserted.
He indicated that the laboratories, which should be the backbone of our health research and diagnostics, also have limited or no essential equipment and skilled staff, hindering our ability to properly diagnose and treat illnesses.
As compared to the 2000s the chief of office staff in the office of Vice President Koung said Liberia’s healthcare system in the 70s was so robust that neighboring countries looked to us for quality healthcare.
“Today, however, we face the stark reality that our neighbors no longer see our system as a model, and we must confront these challenges with transparency and resolve” he averred.
Prince Menkalo Gbieu however added that the ARREST agenda, led by H.E. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, is strategically focused on closing the gaps like poor healthcare delivery system amongst other.
He told the students that their dedication to the journey of learning has prepared them to meet the challenges in our healthcare system.
“As you step into your roles, you are joining a generation that has the unique opportunity to reshape healthcare in Liberia; your service will go beyond treating illnesses; it will involve restoring faith in a system that our citizens deserve”.
Gbieu informed the graduates that future they are about to shape is one that requires resilience, adaptability, and compassion. “We count on your expertise and your passion to bring renewed energy into our health sector”.
For his part, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees Honorable Richmond Anderson expressed excitement for what he terms as a milestone achievement of Smythe University College since it was 24 years ago.
According to him, such an achievement has shown the impact his institution has made in the Liberian society and others across Africa and the global over its more than two decades of existence.
The Board Chair indicated that Smythe University College will continue to contribute to Liberia’s educational system and ensure that it is done with quality.
Generally I do not read post on blogs, but I wish to say that this write-up very compelled me to try and do it! Your writing taste has been amazed me. Thanks, very nice post.
Hi, i think that i saw you visited my web site so i came to “return the favor”.I am trying to find things to enhance my website!I suppose its ok to use some of your ideas!!