Liberia: ‘Build Resilience, Persevere’ — Cllr. Alvin Yelloway Inspires Jones Christian Academy Graduates

Monrovia – The Jones Christian Academy (JCA) over the weekend graduated 27 students of its fifth senior class, the “Echo Class” or “Class of Excellence,” with keynote speaker Cllr. Alvin Weagar Yelloway urging them to embrace resilience, perseverance, and responsibility as they transition into the next phase of life.

Delivering his address under the theme “Building Resilience and Perseverance Amidst the Challenges of the 21st Century,” Cllr. Yelloway told the graduates that while they are stepping into a complex world, they have the power to overcome its challenges through discipline, continuous learning, and leadership.

“Unlike my generation, which was devastated by war, poverty, and lack of access to education, your generation faces the wars of drug abuse, cyberbullying, misinformation, sexual exploitation, and a political system that often exploits young people,” he cautioned. “But you can win—if you choose to build resilience and practice perseverance.”

Using the metaphor of the Chinese bamboo tree, which remains underground for five years before shooting up 80 feet in just five weeks, Cllr. Yelloway encouraged the graduates to remain patient, consistent, and persistent in their pursuits. “Like that bamboo tree seed, you must build quietly, patiently, consistently, and persistently. One day, your time will come—and when it does, you must be ready to rise,” he said.

JCA’s Growth and Challenges

Reflecting on JCA’s journey, Cllr. Yelloway praised the institution for its growth from an elementary school into a full senior high school with vocational and technical education programs. He noted milestones such as improved infrastructure, computer education from elementary to senior high, and a thriving bus service.

However, he also acknowledged persistent challenges including rotational teaching staff, low salaries for teachers, sanitation issues, and student behavioral concerns. Despite these hurdles, he commended the administration for maintaining academic excellence and moral discipline, making JCA a “beacon of hope in the Liberian educational system.”

PTA Achievements and Parental Role

As outgoing chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), Cllr. Yelloway highlighted key accomplishments during his tenure. These included negotiating a US$50 reduction in tuition per student for the current academic year, establishing an on-campus clinic, renovating the cafeteria through fundraising, providing whiteboards and fans across classrooms, and partnering with the Swedish Embassy to promote democratic values through student engagement.

He reminded parents to remain models of maturity, urging them never to resolve disputes with teachers or administrators in anger before their children. “Parents must model maturity and emotional intelligence,” he said. “Doing otherwise teaches children that conflict is best resolved through disrespect.”

Honoring a ‘Legend’

In recognition of his years of service and commitment, the school’s proprietor, Bishop Emmanuel R. Jones, presented Cllr. Yelloway with a Special Legend Award. The honor, he said, was for the lawyer’s “selfless and tireless contributions” to the growth of JCA and its students.

A Charge to the Graduates

Concluding his speech, Cllr. Yelloway urged the graduates to set clear goals, continue learning, volunteer in their communities, and embrace honesty and courage as guiding principles.

“You must not fail your parents. You must not fail JCA. You must not fail yourself,” he charged. “Go into the world—as the trumpet rolls—make JCA proud. Let JCA shine and let your light shine.”