Marshall, Margibi County – The Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI) has for the first time graduated 24 young Liberians who have completed a full two-year study to earn an Associate degree in marine engineering, Mechanical engineering and other applied science course.
Report by Bettie K. Johnson-Mbayo, [email protected] & Edwin G. Genoway, Jr. [email protected]
President George Weah, who served as the guest speaker, reemphasized that his government is committed to its pro-poor agenda for development, adding that it is important for his administration to empower youth and create economic opportunities for Liberians.
He congratulated and encouraged the graduates to pursue their professional aspirations and serve as ambassadors of Liberia.
He added that all of the graduates have secured employment and opportunity to further their education.
According to the Liberian leader, LMTI offers Liberian youth from around the country the opportunity to earn essential technical and leadership skills so that they can be valued members of the country’s workforce and economy.
“I must say that I have noticed so many changes last year, thanks for the progress, continue to invest in the educational establishment,” said Weah, who also awarded scholarships to four students and an instructor.
“We should all be proud of the achievement, the education and professional skills at LMTI are essential to the development of our national workforce.”
The Liberian President said: “It is my hope that LMTI will produce marketable and employable. My government is committed to supporting the LMTI through LMA. The students here today are inspiring.”
Abraham Zaidenburg, LMTI chairman and Elan Cohen, Executive chairman, Liberia International Ship & Corporate Registry (LISCR) promised to revitalize the institute into a world class.
Both urged the students to make Liberia proud.
“It is your responsibility to make us proud and use your knowledge to be professional and be an example to future graduates,” Cohen said.
Added Zaidenberg: “We have bigger plans for the institute; why this is the first batch it will soon be joined by others graduates.”
For Cohen, he asked the cadets to stay committed because the future is in your hands.
Dr. James Kollie, Commissioner of the Liberia Maritime Authority, described the partnership with LISCR as “healthy and meaningful” partnership that is transforming the LMTI.
“This Institute has transformed from a once battered and ravaged environment to now a citadel of excellence and productivity,” Dr. Flomo said.
“When your go out don’t make this country shame; you are an ambassadors for us and thanks for the good two years.”
In 2015, the government of former President Sirleaf tasked LISCR with the responsibility to manage the LMTI in 2015 and has since embarked on a dramatic revitalization program that included overhauling LMTI previous facilities, curriculum and faculty.