Africa-Press – Liberia. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has emphasized the need for concrete actions to fully harness the potential of Liberia’s maritime sector. Serving as special guest of honor at the third graduation ceremony of the Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI) on Thursday, May 16, 2024, in Marshall City, Margibi County, Boakai said the institute is a crucial tool in the country’s efforts to tap into these opportunities. The occasion witnessed the conferral of Associate Degrees in Marine Engineering upon 24 cadets, marking a crucial milestone in both their individual journeys and Liberia’s maritime ambitions.
Addressing the audience, the Liberian leader underscored the profound significance of the event, stating: “Today’s ceremony not only celebrates the achievements of our graduates but also reflects our unwavering commitment to professionalism and progress in governance.” Boakai emphasized the pivotal role of specialized education in empowering Liberia’s youth and driving the nation toward sustainable growth.
“We have gathered here today not only to witness the 3rd graduation ceremony of the Liberia Maritime Training Institute but also to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to the empowerment and development of the young people of our country,” he continued, emphasizing the importance of investing in the youth for the nation’s progress.
“It is a commitment that I hold dear to my heart and is central to my administration’s approach because I believe that providing career opportunities for young people not only empowers them but also guarantees the continued existence and progress of our country,” President Boakai remarked, highlighting the government’s dedication to youth empowerment.
“The Liberia Maritime Training Institute project stands as a cornerstone of our ARREST Agenda’s educational objectives,” Boakai emphasized. “Technical expertise obtained through programs like these not only enriches our youth but also ensures their relevance in both domestic and global labor markets, bolstering Liberia’s economic landscape.”
He proudly recounted Liberia’s notable achievements within the global maritime domain, saying, “Liberia’s esteemed status as a Category A Member of the Council of the International Maritime Organization and the commendable performance of the Liberian Ship Registry are testament to our nation’s maritime prowess.” He stressed the strategic significance of Liberia’s maritime sector, given its extensive coastline, thriving seaports, and abundant marine resources.
Calling for concerted efforts to fully leverage Liberia’s maritime potential, President Boakai underscored the indispensable role of the Liberia Maritime Training Institute in grooming the next generation of seafarers and maritime professionals. “We must expand the institute’s infrastructure and curriculum to meet growing demand, ensuring Liberia’s continued prominence in global maritime affairs,” he urged.
Boakai also commended the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) for its proactive stance in promoting gender inclusivity within the maritime sector. He praised efforts to increase female enrollment at LMTI, affirming Liberia’s commitment to diversity and equality in maritime career opportunities.
“To our dear parents, I say thank you for your moral and financial support to these young people,” Boakai expressed gratitude, acknowledging the sacrifices made by families in nurturing their children’s education.
“To the graduates, I say congratulations! I urge you not to see yourselves just as cadets; you are graduates who are going to be among those shining stars that help the name of Liberia illuminate so brightly in the community of nations,” he encouraged the graduating class, urging them to excel in their chosen paths.
“As you venture into the world, always aim to cultivate a strong character and be a positive representative of your community,” Boakai advised, emphasizing the importance of integrity in their future endeavors.
“I want to acknowledge the government’s appreciation to all of our partners, including LISCR, for their contribution to the transformation of this institution,” Boakai recognized the collaborative efforts that led to the institute’s success.
“In our continuous effort to build a strong maritime nation and maintain our position as a leading flag state, we aim to increase the number of seafarers we send aboard vessels,” he outlined the government’s goals for the maritime sector.
“Let this occasion therefore signal to us that our country is on track with no intention to indulge in doing business as usual,” Boakai concluded, affirming the government’s commitment to Liberia’s development.
For the graduates, this was more than just a graduation. They find themselves in a league of their own. They were marching out of the country’s premier Maritime Academy after acquiring top-notch training.
Their sense of fulfillment was all too visible as they took their seats in the ceremony hall. “Being a graduate of this prestigious Institution is an honor I take in no small measure”, said Sarah Favor Towieh, who served as Commander of the troops. “This moment will remain etched in my mind forever.”
Earlier, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., Commissioner of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), took the podium to express his pride in the graduating class and reaffirm the authority’s dedication to maritime education and training.
“Over the course of two years, you conquered the challenges of this rigorous training program at the Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI) and you are now equipped with the knowledge and skills to embark on a remarkable career path at sea,” Commissioner Lighe commended the cadets for their hard work and determination.
“While we acknowledge the momentous nature of today’s occasion and take enormous pride in the feat achieved by these young men and women, we are not unaware of the fact that the constantly-evolving global maritime industry requires the continuous training of highly skilled workforce,” Lighe highlighted the importance of ongoing education and skill development in the maritime sector.
“It is critically important that we take deliberate steps at making the needed investment in improving the infrastructure of our maritime training program,” he emphasized the significance of infrastructure improvements for effective training.
“Your Excellency, the vision for infrastructural improvement at the LMTI aligns with your strategic goal of increasing the enrollment at the institution,” Lighe acknowledged the government’s support for expanding maritime education opportunities.
“To our distinguished graduates, the knowledge and skills you have acquired at the LMTI are the bedrock of your success in your future endeavors,” he assured the graduating class of the value of their education.
Mr. Abraham Zaidenberg, chairman of LMTI, concluded the ceremony with a pledge to continue preparing the next generation of Liberian seafarers and maritime practitioners.
“The cornerstone of our work at LMTI and the foundation of our success have always been modern training facilities, high-quality portfolio of courses and educational content taught by committed and qualified instructors,” Zaidenberg emphasized the institute’s commitment to excellence in maritime education.
“We cannot let down those young people that are yearning for an opportunity to improve their lives,” the LMTI Chairman affirmed the institute’s dedication to providing opportunities for youth empowerment.
“In the coming years, the LMTI is ecstatic to commence the process of expanding its facilities to increase enrollment and expand its portfolio of courses,” Zaidenberg outlined the institute’s plans for future growth.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the management, faculty, and staff of the LMTI for your dedication and unwavering commitment to the mission of LMTI,” said Chairman Zaidenberg.
“Together, we can continue to help make LMTI a premium center of maritime education and training,” he concluded, highlighting the collective effort needed to achieve the institute’s goals.
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