By Emmanuel Kerkulah
SUAKOKO, Bong County-Cuttington University today graduated 1,037 students during its 64th Commencement Convocation on Saturday and announced plans to award Liberia’s first doctoral degrees in 2027.
The ceremony at the university’s main campus brought together government officials, faculty, students, parents and other guests to celebrate the Class of 2026.
In her annual address, University President Dr. Romelle A. Horton said Cuttington remains the only institution in Liberia offering a doctoral program and is preparing to graduate its inaugural Ph.D. class next year.
Horton also announced plans to launch a master’s degree in agriculture to strengthen the country’s agricultural workforce and improve food security. She said the university will also revive its Language Arts program with degree offerings in English, French and Mandarin.
She highlighted several institutional achievements, including progress in the Dental Therapy Program, infrastructure improvements under a memorandum of understanding with the Liberia National Police, and new partnerships with the Forum for African Women Educationalists and the Liberian Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Horton added that Cuttington continues to record the country’s highest pass rate in professional accounting examinations.
Delivering the keynote address, Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung urged graduates to become entrepreneurs and job creators rather than relying solely on government or formal employment.
Koung encouraged graduates to lead with integrity, resilience and innovation, saying Liberia’s future depends on young people committed to ethical leadership and national development. Reflecting on his own journey from humble beginnings to public service, he said leadership is measured by service, not titles, and challenged graduates to use their education to create opportunities, strengthen their communities and promote national unity.
