By By: Staff Writer
Ten Liberian students, including seven beneficiaries of full scholarships from the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), have successfully completed their studies and graduated from the Regional Maritime University (RMU) in Accra, Ghana. The graduation took place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, during the university’s 19th Congregation Ceremony, a colorful event held at the institution’s parade grounds. The achievement underscores LiMA’s continued dedication to developing skilled professionals in Liberia’s maritime sector.
The ceremony brought together ministers, diplomats, industry stakeholders, traditional leaders, and families to celebrate the accomplishments of 372 graduates who received master’s, bachelor’s, and diploma qualifications across various maritime, engineering, and technical fields.
Representing Liberia were four master’s degree holders in Port and Shipping Administration — Derrick Pehou Barshell, George Duke Brown, Christopher Nyan Mylemon, and Watson Monkalla Chelley. At the undergraduate level, Faith Leo Jackson and Abraham Leeboy Morris earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Nautical Science, while Tawo Pukie Siafolo, Sharon Musulyn Kamara, and Blojay Felix Zeekeh obtained degrees in Marine Engineering. Besetta Gray, who also served as President of the Liberian Students’ Union at RMU, completed a degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and expressed heartfelt thanks to LiMA’s Commissioner and CEO, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., for his steadfast support.
Delivering his annual address, Acting Vice Chancellor Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jr. outlined recent advancements at RMU, including the introduction of new postgraduate programs in Blue Economy and Maritime Law. He also announced the rollout of a four-year mandatory cadetship program for all sea-going students starting from the 2025/2026 academic year.
Dr. Brooks applauded Liberia for its key role in constructing a new two-storey student hostel on the university’s campus. He appealed to the Liberian government to consider extending the building with two additional floors to accommodate the growing student population, especially as interest in maritime studies continues to rise among female students.
Chancellor and Board Chairman, Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay, commended member states—Liberia, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Cameroon, and The Gambia—for their continued investment in RMU. He described the Class of 2025 as a symbol of maritime excellence and the next generation of leaders in the global shipping industry.
Later at a dinner held in honor of the graduates, Commissioner and CEO Lighe congratulated the Liberian students for their determination and perseverance. He assured them that LiMA is working closely with partners in the maritime industry to create opportunities for professional placement and career growth.
The ceremony reaffirmed RMU’s standing as a premier hub for maritime education in West and Central Africa and highlighted the shared commitment of its member countries to advancing the region’s maritime workforce and infrastructure.
