HARPER, Maryland County — William V.S. Tubman University has graduated eighty-six students as Peer Support Providers following the successful completion of a nine-week intensive training organized by the university’s Department of Counseling.
The graduation ceremony, which marked the ninth batch of the program, was held at the University’s Pavilion over the weekend. The initiative is designed to equip students with skills to promote mental wellness and provide support to peers experiencing academic, emotional, and social challenges both on campus and within their communities, counties and the country as a whole.
Delivering the keynote address, Amanda Dada Harris, praised the graduates for stepping forward during a time when Liberia continues to face economic and social challenges.
She described the newly trained Peer Support Providers as “listeners, stabilizers, and bridge builders,” encouraging them to use their skills to positively impact the lives of others.
Speaking on behalf of the administration of the University, David Hne Erskine, Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Services, emphasized the importance of professionalism, ethics, and integrity in peer counseling.
He urged graduates to uphold confidentiality and maintain trust while supporting fellow students.
Following the ceremony, some graduates expressed enthusiasm about their new roles. Abraham Doe described the experience as impactful, stating, “Indeed, we are the stabilizers of our community,” shortly after receiving his certificate.
Another graduate, Rachel Crusoe, also shared her excitement, saying, “Today I took the OATH OF CONFIDENTIALITY as a PEER SUPPORT PROVIDER and I’m fully ready to listen, support and make a difference. I’m grateful to William V.S Tubman University, Department of Counseling for this wonderful opportunity.”
According to organizers, the Peer Support Provider program is offered every first semester, allowing eligible students to apply, except for senior students. Applications are typically announced through college bulletin boards across the university, where interested students can register by submitting their names.
University officials noted that the initiative continues to strengthen student wellbeing by building a network of trained peer supporters capable of identifying challenges early and referring students to appropriate services when necessary.
The ceremony concluded with graduates leaving inspired and ready to serve as agents of positive change, committed to promoting mental wellness and fostering supportive communities both on campus and beyond.
