Africa-Press – Liberia. Tubman University has successfully concluded its first-ever Entrepreneurship Week, a landmark initiative designed to foster innovation, practical business skills, and entrepreneurial thinking among students and surrounding communities.
The weeklong program, organized through the University’s College of Business and Administration in partnership with the Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Incubation Center (EIIC), was held from March 29 and April 6–9, 2026, under the theme: “Beyond the Classroom: Igniting Innovation, Empowering Entrepreneurs.”
The initiative brought together students, faculty members, business leaders, and local residents in what university officials described as a transformative experience aimed at shifting mindsets from dependency to enterprise creation. Activities included practical training workshops, community outreach engagements, innovation exhibitions, and a highly anticipated student Pitching Competition.
One of the most impactful components of the week was the University’s outreach to Hoffman Station and Nembleh Community, where EIIC staff facilitated training sessions for leaders of 36 Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA).
The groups collectively represent nearly 3,000 women engaged in grassroots savings and economic empowerment initiatives.
Participants received instruction in financial literacy, small business management, and enterprise development, with organizers noting that the sessions were intended to strengthen women led local economies and promote sustainable livelihoods.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Tubman University President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Olu Q. Menjay challenged students to rethink traditional employment expectations and instead become creators of opportunities.
He stressed that the University is deliberately working to transform student perspectives toward productive service and national development.
According to Dr. Menjay, Liberia possesses enormous untapped potential that requires innovation and commitment to unlock.
“Liberia is a man with a full stomach but sleeping in hunger,” Dr. Menjay declared, urging the EIIC to ensure that its programs produce practical and measurable outcomes for students and communities alike.
The climax of the week came during the Innovation Exhibition and Pitching Competition, where students presented creative business concepts and problem-solving ideas before a panel of judges and invited guests. Winning participants were honored with medals and certificates in recognition of their ingenuity and enterprise spirit.
At the closing ceremony, Ben Collins, Director of the Entrepreneurship Program, announced that Entrepreneurship Week will now become an annual academic event at the University.
He said the decision reflects Tubman University’s long-term commitment to nurturing innovation, supporting student led ventures, and equipping young Liberians with the tools needed to succeed in an evolving economy.
Mr. Collins also thanked students, faculty members, community stakeholders, and the University administration for their active support, singling out Dr. Menjay for his leadership and vision in advancing entrepreneurship on campus.
University officials described Entrepreneurship Week 2026 as a strategic milestone aligned with Tubman University’s institutional pillar of “entrepreneur enterprise,” which seeks to build a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem across southeastern Liberia.
Observers say the successful hosting of the inaugural program has elevated the University’s profile, strengthened ties with surrounding communities, and inspired a new generation of students to pursue innovative solutions capable of contributing meaningfully to Liberia’s economic future.
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