By Godgift Harris
The University of Liberia (UL) has inducted 48 “exceptional freshmen” into the “Honors Scholars Program” of the College of Gender Studies and Interdisciplinary Research.
The action reinforces UL’s commitment to “academic excellence and national development.”
The vibrant ceremony, held on Wednesday, February 18, at the Fendall Campus, marked a key milestone in UL’s academic calendar.
It also served as a highlight of the College’s 9th Annual Research Symposium, and officially launched activities for the 105th Commencement Convocation.
The event celebrated scholarship, innovation, and leadership, bringing together students, faculty, and national stakeholders.
A Merit-Based Achievement
The newly inducted cohort comprises 40 men and 8 women selected from various colleges across UL based strictly on “academic merit” during their first year of study.
Their induction represents the 12th cohort since program was established in 2011, reflecting the long-standing tradition of nurturing intellectual distinction.
The Honors Scholars Program provides advanced academic training in interdisciplinary research, equipping students with knowledge, and practical skills to address country’s most pressing challenges.
Through structured mentorship, rigorous academic engagement, and leadership development, the program continues to cultivate a generation of ethical, analytical, and solution-driven leaders.
Dean of the College of Gender Studies and Interdisciplinary Research, Madam Lorpu Garmai Blackie, described the selection process as “highly competitive and entirely merit-based.”
Madam Blackie noted that students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.33 from the beginning of their sophomore year until program completion.
“These scholars are recognized globally for academic distinction and leadership potential.”
Madam Blackie said, the program continues to set high standards for research excellence at UL.
Research with impact
During the ceremony, five graduating honors scholars presented research aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Each scholar delivered a seven-minute presentation followed by a five-minute Q&A session, showcasing analytical rigor, intellectual depth, and public engagement skills.
Among the presenters, Jude Zondoe T. Summerville, explored “Assessment of Groundwater Quality in Chicken Soup Factory Community,” highlighting environmental sustainability and public health concerns.
Jeremiah J. Doryen, examined “Assessing the Impact of Gender on Women’s Political Participation and Representation in Liberi; a Case Study of the House of Representatives (2023–2025),” addressing governance and inclusion issues.
Vahcelia D. Vah, presented research on “Pageantry Exploitation and the Financial Implications for Girls Participating in Miss Earth Liberia,” focusing on social and economic factors affecting young women.
The presentations underscored UL commitment to community-centered, policy-relevant and socially responsive research, demonstrating how academic inquiry can address real-world national priorities.
Presidential Recognition
UL President Layli Maparyan, described the induction as a celebration of enduring commitments, the advancement of rigorous scholarship and the recognition of academic excellence.
“It is fitting that the engagement is framed under the theme: “Contribution of Equitable Research to Sustainable Development.”
Dr. Maparyan highlighted that research at UL is not merely academic, but a public good that drives national development, policy reform, and social transformation.
“When research is equitable inclusive in design, participatory in method, and responsive in outcome it uplifts communities and leaves no one behind,” she added, urging the newly inducted scholars to pursue bold, ethical, and impactful research.
She also commended the College for creating a platform that encourages dialogue, innovation, and critical thinking grounded in equity and justice.