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By: The People News Online
Harper, Maryland County Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., has urged students of William V. S. Tubman University to embrace visionary thinking and use education as a powerful tool to drive change and solve national problems.
Speaking as Keynote Speaker at the university’s 16th Opening Convocation, Cllr. Lighe challenged students to see education not merely as a pathway to earning degrees, but as an opportunity to innovate, create solutions, and help rebuild Liberia.
“Education should not end in the classroom,” he told the gathering. “Seek knowledge not only to pass exams but to solve problems and take initiatives.”
Celebrating Tubman University’s Growth and Impact
The Commissioner commended Tubman University for its transformation from a small technical college into a full-fledged university with six colleges, calling it a beacon of opportunity for Liberia’s southeast. He praised the institution’s contribution to producing skilled professionals who are shaping various sectors of the country.
Held under the theme “The Power of Visionary Thinking: Unlocking Potentials and Inspiring Future Success,” the convocation, he said, was a reminder that real progress begins with bold ideas and determination.
“Dream beyond your limitations, think boldly, and act with purpose,” Cllr. Lighe emphasized, describing visionary thinking as the key to unlocking both personal and national success.
Personal Lessons and a Call for Courage
Reflecting on his own academic journey during Liberia’s civil conflict, the maritime chief encouraged students to stay focused despite adversity.
“Self-doubt kills more dreams than failure,” he cautioned. “Believe in yourself, remain disciplined, and face challenges with courage.”
He urged young people to apply their studies toward real-world needs, especially in engineering, infrastructure, and innovation, where Liberia continues to face development gaps.
New Scholarships Announced
As part of his address, Cllr. Lighe announced new educational opportunities through the Liberia Maritime Authority. Two Tubman University graduates will receive full sponsorships to pursue Master’s degrees in Naval Architecture and Offshore Engineering in India.
He further revealed plans for additional postgraduate scholarships at the Regional Maritime University (RMU) in Ghana and **local sponsorships for 100 students** over the next three years — part of LiMA’s broader commitment to human capacity development.
A Visionary Message
Concluding his address, Commissioner Lighe left the students with a vivid metaphor about education and imagination:
“Your education is the brush, and your vision is the color. What you paint will shape not only your future but the future of Liberia.”
His message received loud applause from students and faculty alike, marking the convocation as one of the university’s most inspirational opening ceremonies in recent years.
