President Joseph N. Boakai has urged the graduates of the Bong County Technical College to dream big, aim high, and go out into the world with their heads held high. Serving as guest speaker during the school’s 4th graduation ceremony on Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Gbarnga City, Bong County, the Liberian leader encouraged graduates to be proud of what they have achieved, but stay grounded, hungry for educational advancement, and never stop learning.
Boakai reminded the graduates never to forget that education is both a privilege and a call to duty, adding that no nation can rise without its youth; no economy can thrive without skills, and no dream can be fulfilled without hard work.
“As we attract investment, grow our economy, and develop our natural resources, we must ensure that Liberians, especially trained young people like you, are the first to benefit. It is time to build a strong middle class rooted in skills and driven by national pride,” he said.
The President said that as the graduates step into the world with their diplomas, they should remember that they are carrying more than a certificate, but the hopes of their family, the pride of their community, and the expectations of a nation.
“As graduates entering this new Liberia, we expect you to be part of that transformation. The nation you inherit today is one in need of builders, engineers, innovators, and doers, and that is who you are,” Boakai added. Also, the President disclosed that his administration is committed to delivering results, saying, “We are focused on performance, accountability, and public service that actually serve the public.”
Speaking in a rather confident tone, Boakai explained, “And to you, the graduates, let me speak plainly. Liberia needs you. Your country is calling on you to lead with integrity, courage, and imagination. Be bold. Be visionary. Use your skills not just for personal success, but to serve your nation.”
However, the Liberian leader told the administrators, faculty, and staff of the institution that their work matters more than ever, encouraging them to improve infrastructure, build partnerships, focus on equity, outreach, and excellence. He described rural Liberia as a place of growth, not neglect, of possibility, not limitation, noting that Bong County Technical College should be a model of how rural Liberia can lead, not lag behind. Moreover, Boakai recognized the importance of bringing quality education to rural areas.
He said, “Far too often, rural citizens have been left behind. This is not just an education issue. It is a matter of fairness and national unity. We believe that no child should be denied opportunity simply because of where they were born. Rural communities hold immense talent, creativity, and determination. What they need is a fair chance.”
According to him, that is why the government is committed to decentralizing opportunities, and his administration is determined to ensure that centers of learning and innovation are not limited to Monrovia or a few cities, but are accessible nationwide.
