‘We Must Commit Quotas In Deeds, Not Just In Word’ Liberian Educator Inspires Colleagues at UL Homecoming Day

Liberia’s unarguably biggest academic referral institution, the University of Liberia, is immersed in a horde of convocation proceedings – the 104th Commencement exercises otherwise duped 104th “Kwa’ Lo Lie Class”, a name from the Mahn language which means “Let us move ahead.”

Amongst of the chain of activities is the Alumni Homecoming held Friday September 13, with one of the institution’s most notable ex-students, B. Elias Shoniyin currently

Dean, School of Global Affairs and Policy at the Cuttington University Graduate Schools, serving as the keynote speaker.

For him, the occasion invoked a feeling of nostalgia mixed with pride and a sense of duty.

“We once roamed these grounds as students, and we have returned today as leaders, innovators, and agents of change,” he said last weekend on capital hill in a prepared statement fit for the day.

“The paths our careers have taken may vary, but we are all united by the transformative power of the University of Liberia.”

“Whether we have found immense success or are still climbing toward our goals, one truth remains: This university gave us the tools to navigate the complexities of life, and it is now our turn to ensure that future generations after us have similar opportunities.”

He told his audience that alumni are the custodians of the university’s legacy, a shared responsibility not merely symbolic but it is real, tangible, and urgent.

The glory of the University of Liberia, the Liberian academic said, is its reputation, its excellence, its ability to inspire generations—something that “depends on our active involvement and generosity”.

He added: “We must commit not just in words but in deeds whether it is through our financial support, mentorship, or advocating for the university’s interests in our professional circles, we each have a role to play in sustaining the University of Liberia’s standing as a beacon of knowledge and hope.”

Homecoming, Elias Shoniyin also said, is more than just a reunion of friends and colleagues but also an opportunity to reflect, to reconnect, and to recommit to the future of the University of Liberia.

“It is an occasion to acknowledge how far we’ve come and to refuel as we chart a course towards the future. The bonds we forge today will not only strengthen our alumni network but also ensure that we continue to support and uplift our dear alma mater,” he stressed.

“As alumni of this university,” the CU Dean said, “we have inherited a sacred responsibility. We must remember that the University of Liberia’s reputation is tied to our actions, our achievements, and our failures.

“We must lead by example, embodying the highest standards of integrity, compassion, and ethical leadership in all that we do. As alumni, we are not only expected to excel in our fields; we are called upon to be role models in our communities, to serve with humility and purpose, and to be agents of positive change.”

He noted that such ideals as leadership, service, integrity may sound lofty, but history has shown time and time again that they are the foundations upon which prosperous nations are built.

He told his fellow UL alumni at their homecoming program that if they were to effect real, lasting change in Liberia and beyond, they must embrace a cultural shift that prioritizes ethical behavior, civic responsibility, and community engagement.

“We must reject the impulse to destroy when we feel frustrated, and instead, channel our energies into constructive, solution-oriented actions,” the admonished. “Self-serving actions only undermine the very progress we seek.”

As alumni of this great university, Mr. Shoniyin said, “we must lead by example in showing that real change comes through sacrifice and positive thinking.”

Continuing, the said: “Fellow alumni, we are living in a rapidly changing and increasingly unpredictable world. The challenges we today face as a nation and as individuals are complex, multifaceted, and often daunting.

“As Liberia navigates this critical moment in its history, we, the enlightened segment of society, must rise to the occasion. Whether it is ethnical expectations or the intricacies of political affiliation, our role as alumni of the University of Liberia is to rise above these limitations and to be at the forefront of efforts to ensure national stability, prosperity, and progress.”

Invoking more nostalgia within his colleagues, he added: “Every time I return to campus after a long while, it feels like revisiting an old love. You remember all the good times, the moments that shaped you—but then, you also remember the brokeness, 404 where we found food we could afford, and the scramble to find chairs for our over-enrolled classes! But just like any great relationship, despite all the challenges, you will do it all over again because it helped make you who you are today.” It’s light-hearted and relatable. Isn’t it? These memories reinforce the theme of growth and fond reflection that we can never forget!”

Elias Shoniyin thanked the leadership of the Alumni Association for the extraordinary honor to share his thoughts with fellow alumni, describing it both humbling and exhilarating.

He said: “Today’s homecoming is not just a celebration of memories; it is a call to action—a call to take ownership of the future of our alma mater, our nation, and the world around us.

To Dr. Conteh and your remarkable team, in recent days, your visionary leadership has been a guiding force for this university. We want to thank you!”

He paid homage to the tireless efforts of the faculty, staff, and previous generations of leaders who have sacrificed their time, energy, and wisdom to secure a brighter future for the University of Liberia and, by extension, the entire ountry.

“Their enduring commitment serves as a reminder of the deep responsibility we bear as alumni of this prestigious institution,” the CU Dean said, emphasizing that the university’s motto, propels us in that direction: Lux in Tenebris—“Light in the Dark”—is more relevant today than ever.”

As graduates of the great University, he asserted also that “we are called to be that light, guiding our communities, our nation, and the world toward a brighter future. Our education did not provide us with all the answers, but it gave us the tools to think critically, to challenge ourselves, and to persevere in the face of adversity”.

He called on future, stating: “Your journey is just beginning. You are about to embark on a path filled with endless possibilities. The skills and values you have acquired here will serve as your compass, guiding you toward success in whatever field you’ve chosen. As you move forward, remember that you are part of a legacy—a legacy of excellence, leadership, and service.”

In closing, I congratulate all of us for coming together today to celebrate the University of Liberia and the rich heritage it has bestowed upon us. But let this not be the end of our engagement. Let this be the beginning of a renewed commitment to be the light in the dark, the change-makers our nation so desperately needs. Let us return to our communities, our workplaces, and our homes with a sense of purpose, a spirit of collaboration, and an unshakable belief in the power of education that can only be given by the University of Liberia.