Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung has officially launched Grand Gedeh University, describing the milestone as “the birth of hope, the rise of opportunity, and the opening of doors that were once closed to many.”
Speaking Monday at Monrovia City Hall, the Vice President emphasized that the transformation of the former community college into a full university represents a new chapter for the nation, declaring, “this is more than a ceremony… it is the birth of hope and opportunity for our people.”
The remarks were contained in a speech delivered on his behalf by the Deputy Chief of Staff for Administration in the Office of the Vice President, Macdonald M. Metzer, during the Grand Gedeh University launch and US$1 million endowment fund drive.
Dr. Metzer highlighted the broader impact of the institution, noting that it will serve not only Grand Gedeh County but the entire southeastern region. “It brings education closer to the people, and in doing so, it brings hope closer to their hearts,” he stated. Vice President Koung stressed the need for excellence, urging that “this university must not only serve the southeast, but it must compete with the very best across our nation.”
He also praised the Ministry of Education and the university’s leadership, adding, “Your collaboration, your vision, and your unwavering commitment have made this milestone possible.” He encouraged students to embrace the opportunity, saying, “You are not just enrolling in a university; you are enrolling in the future of Liberia.”
To educators, the Vice President offered commendation and reassurance: “We honor your sacrifices, your resilience, and your dedication,” he said, while affirming government’s commitment to improving their conditions and salaries.
The Vice President pledged his commitment to the construction of a modern Student Center,” and made an initial contribution of US$5,000 toward the fund drive. Reaffirming the government’s stance on education, the Vice President Koung declared, “This government is serious about education, serious about inclusion, and serious about opportunity,” emphasizing the need to combat “illiteracy, ignorance, and brain drain.”
The launch of Grand Gedeh University marks a significant step in Liberia’s drive toward inclusive development, with the Vice President adding, “Let this university stand as a promise fulfilled and a promise renewed.”
The university’s endowment fund drive aims to address current and future funding challenges, focusing on scholarships, faculty capacity-building programs, infrastructure development, and technology for digital learning.
