Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the University of Liberia, Senator Numene T.H. Bartekwa Sr., has called on Liberian students studying in India to pursue academic excellence, uphold discipline, and prepare themselves to contribute meaningfully to Liberia’s national development upon completing their studies.
Senator Bartekwa made the call during the celebration of Liberia’s 179th Independence Anniversary held at Sharda University in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India, where he served as the special guest.
The celebration brought together officials of Sharda University, members of the Liberian student community in India, representatives of the University of Liberia, and invited guests to commemorate Liberia’s independence while reaffirming the growing educational partnership between Liberia and India.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Bartekwa conveyed greetings from President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Senate President Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence, and University of Liberia President Dr. Layli Maparyen. He thanked the leadership of Sharda University and the Liberian student community for the warm reception and for organizing what he described as a meaningful celebration of Liberia’s history, national identity, and friendship with India.
Reflecting on Liberia’s 179-year journey since gaining independence on July 26, 1847, the Grand Kru County lawmaker said the nation’s history has been marked by resilience, perseverance, courage, and determination despite periods of hardship. He noted that Independence Day should serve not only as a remembrance of the country’s past but also as an opportunity for Liberians to renew their commitment to liberty, justice, democratic governance, national unity, peace, and sustainable development.
He urged Liberians residing abroad to recognize their responsibility as ambassadors of the country, stressing that patriotism extends beyond Liberia’s borders.
“Wherever you reside, you remain custodians of our nation’s image,” Senator Bartekwa said, adding that the conduct and achievements of Liberians overseas continue to shape the country’s reputation in the international community.
Speaking directly to Liberian students in India, the Senator described education as one of the most powerful tools for national transformation. He encouraged them to remain committed to their studies, respect India’s laws and cultural traditions, embrace diversity, and build relationships that strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
According to him, the knowledge, skills, and international exposure acquired abroad should ultimately be invested in Liberia through responsible leadership, innovation, professional excellence, and public service.
“The education you are receiving represents an investment in Liberia’s future. Your success abroad must become part of Liberia’s success at home,” he told the students.
As Chairperson of the University of Liberia Board of Trustees, Senator Bartekwa reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to promoting academic excellence, research, innovation, ethical leadership, and the development of graduates capable of addressing both national and global challenges.
He said the University’s mission goes beyond awarding degrees, emphasizing that it seeks to produce graduates whose competence, integrity, and commitment to service will advance Liberia’s social and economic development.
The Senator also commended the longstanding relationship between Liberia and India, describing it as a partnership that continues to expand through higher education, healthcare, technical cooperation, scholarships, commerce, professional training, and cultural exchange.
He noted that hundreds of Liberian students are currently pursuing higher education in India, demonstrating the country’s continued contribution to Liberia’s human capacity development.
Senator Bartekwa further praised the leadership and administration of Sharda University for providing an academic environment that enables Liberian students to excel academically and personally. He described the institution’s commitment to international education as an important contribution to global cooperation and mutual development.
Calling for a brighter future for Liberia, Senator Bartekwa urged all Liberians to remain committed to peace, democratic governance, accountability, transparency, the rule of law, and investment in education, describing these principles as essential to building a prosperous nation capable of meeting the aspirations of future generations.
He also encouraged Liberian students to cultivate integrity, humility, ethical leadership, and a spirit of national service, reminding them that their achievements should benefit not only themselves and their families but the Republic of Liberia as a whole.
The Independence Day celebration formed part of Senator Bartekwa’s official visit to India, during which he is expected to hold discussions with the leadership of Sharda University aimed at strengthening institutional cooperation with the University of Liberia in the areas of academic exchange, research collaboration, faculty development, and other mutually beneficial educational partnerships.
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