Madam Tanneh G. Brunson, Finance and Development Planning Deputy Minister for Budget and Development Planning, has cautioned the inaugural graduates of River Gee Technical College to see themselves as “problem-solvers, role models and contributors to national growth.”
The ceremony escribed as historic, marked a turning point for technical education in the county.
The event witnessed the graduation of 203 ‘pioneers,’ the first cohort to complete the college’s market-driven technical education program.
The ceremony signaled the birth of a new workforce armed with practical skills to drive development agenda.“Today is not just a ceremony, but a milestone event that marks the successful completion of a journey defined by commitment, discipline and the courage to seize it,” Madam Brunson told the graduates that their training has been market-driven, and is nationally relevant, adding that they are not just job seekers, but solution providers.
“You are now equipped not only with knowledge, but with skills and the ability to build, fix, create and solve problems.”
Madam Brunson then urged the graduates to view their certificates as a “license to begin with, and not a final destination.” She acknowledged the graduate’s deliberate choice to pursue technical and vocational training in an era when many follow purely academic pathways.
“We live in a time of rapid changes, especially in this time of technology. you have made strategic decisions to acquire practical, marketable, industry-relevant skills, and gained valuable experience along the way.” Madam Brunson said, competence builds confidence, credibility and qualities that are increasingly essential, as young people face evolving global challenges, including climate change, health epidemics, cybersecurity and sustainable development.
She said, cross-functional skills like teamwork, critical thinking and flexibility are now also indispensable. “While academic skills remain paramount, they alone are no longer sufficient. From artificial intelligence to cryptocurrency, and the evolving digital economy bring both opportunities, and disruptions. As a result of job automation, market volatility, and privacy violations. Each of you must be prepared to tackle these new world issues.”
Madam Brunson meanwhile, charged each of the graduates: “Go out there; be bold and courageous. And when you get there, remember to pull someone else up behind you, because the fruits of life are sweeter when shared.”
With this first graduating class, River the college has established itself as a key institution for developing the skilled workforce Liberia needs to grow, and it is a powerful reminder that leadership belongs to those who take it.
Macpherson C. Marbiah writes/0886442881-0777250370