YEIB-MANCO Boss Urges Graduates

The Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Entrepreneurship and Investment Bank Management Company (YEIB-MANCO), Joseph Fatorma Sando, has urged Liberian graduates to look beyond academic certificates and use their education to create entrepreneurial opportunities, serve their communities and contribute to national development.

 

Sando made the call while delivering the keynote address at the graduation and closing ceremony of more than 50 students of St. James Foundation Elementary, Junior and Senior High School in Peace Community, Upper Caldwell, Montserrado County.

Speaking on the theme, “Beyond the Diploma,” Sando said education should not be measured solely by academic qualifications but by the ability of graduates to apply their knowledge and skills to solve problems, improve lives and contribute to Liberia’s development.

He outlined five principles he described as essential to success beyond high school: continuous learning and excellence, integrity, problem-solving, resilience and community service.

On continuous learning and excellence, the YEIB-MANCO chief executive reminded the graduates that completing high school marks the beginning, rather than the end, of their educational journey.

He encouraged them to cultivate a habit of reading, learning and self-improvement to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive and rapidly changing world.

“Do not just do things; learn to do them very well. Excellence should be your signature. Whether you become a doctor, teacher, entrepreneur, or farmer, strive to be the best at what you do,” Sando told the graduates.

He cautioned them against mediocrity, emphasizing that lifelong learning and a commitment to excellence are essential to personal growth and professional success.

Addressing the importance of integrity, Sando urged the graduates to uphold honesty, trustworthiness and strong moral values, even when doing so becomes difficult or unpopular.

He said academic qualifications alone cannot guarantee lasting success without the character necessary to earn and maintain the trust of others.

According to him, protecting one’s integrity and good name is essential to building a sustainable future, particularly in an environment where shortcuts and compromises may appear attractive.

The YEIB-MANCO boss also challenged the Class of 2026 to become problem-solvers and innovators who can identify challenges within their communities and develop practical solutions.

He said Liberia needs young people who will move beyond complaining about the country’s difficulties and instead apply their knowledge, creativity and skills to address pressing social and economic challenges.

“Every community has problems waiting for solutions, and your education should help make you part of the answer,” he stressed.

Sando encouraged the graduates to identify opportunities where others see obstacles and develop ideas that can improve livelihoods, create jobs and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

On resilience, he reminded the students that life after high school would come with challenges, disappointments, rejection and failure. However, he urged them not to allow setbacks to derail their ambitions.

“You will be disappointed, you will fail at times, and you will be rejected, but never surrender. Your ability to rise after every fall is what defines you. Be resilient, be determined, and keep moving forward,” he said.

He encouraged the graduates to remain focused on their goals and view difficulties as opportunities for learning, growth and personal development.

Sando placed particular emphasis on community service, calling on the graduates to use their education and talents to improve the lives of others in Peace Community, Upper Caldwell and Liberia at large.

He encouraged them to volunteer, mentor younger students, support community initiatives and participate actively in local development efforts.

According to him, the true value of education lies not only in personal achievements but also in the positive impact individuals make on society.

 

He stressed that Liberia’s future depends on a generation of educated young people willing to serve with humility, commitment and a strong sense of national responsibility.

Beyond the five principles, Sando urged the graduates to embrace entrepreneurship, discipline and patriotism as they prepare for higher education, employment and other professional opportunities.

He encouraged them to transform their knowledge and skills into productive ventures, create employment opportunities and contribute to Liberia’s economic development.

He maintained that the country needs young people who are not only academically qualified but also skilled, ethical, innovative and committed to national service.

School Honors Sando With Special Gowning Ceremony

In recognition of his contributions to education and the wider community, the administration and faculty of St. James Foundation Elementary, Junior and Senior High School honored Sando with a ceremonial academic gown during the graduation program.

The ceremony, which drew applause from parents, students and community leaders, was conducted by the school’s principal and senior faculty members.

According to the school administration, the honor recognized Sando’s longstanding commitment to supporting the institution and helping shape the lives of young Liberians.

The school described him as a consistent and supportive partner, a father figure and a true friend of the institution.

Administrators highlighted his financial assistance, moral and spiritual encouragement, and academic support, particularly his continued investment in the education of underprivileged children in Peace Community.

They said his continued presence, encouragement and commitment to youth development have made a meaningful contribution to the school and its students.

Responding to the honor, Sando expressed gratitude to the administration and faculty, describing the recognition as humbling and motivating.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting education, youth empowerment and initiatives that create opportunities for young Liberians to reach their full potential.

The graduation ceremony brought together parents, teachers, community leaders and well-wishers to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026.

The program concluded with the presentation of certificates and awards to students who distinguished themselves through academic performance and exemplary conduct. The valedictorian delivered a vote of thanks on behalf of the graduating class.

As the graduates prepare for the next chapter of their lives, Sando’s message underscored the importance of looking beyond academic credentials to embrace entrepreneurship, uphold integrity, overcome adversity, solve community problems and contribute meaningfully to Liberia’s development.