GREATER NOIDA, INDIA – Senator Numene T.H. Bartekwa, Sr., Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the University of Liberia, has called on Liberian students pursuing higher education in India to embrace academic excellence, uphold discipline, and prepare themselves to become architects of Liberia’s future development.
Delivering the keynote address during celebrations marking Liberia’s 179th Independence Anniversary at Sharda University on Monday, Senator Bartekwa challenged Liberian students to recognize that they are not merely scholars abroad but ambassadors entrusted with safeguarding the image and reputation of their homeland.
The colourful ceremony brought together officials of Sharda University, members of the Liberian student community in India, representatives of the University of Liberia, and distinguished guests to celebrate Liberia’s independence while reaffirming the growing educational partnership between Liberia and India.
Conveying greetings from President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, President Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, and University of Liberia President Dr. Layli Maparyan, Senator Bartekwa expressed appreciation to the leadership of Sharda University and the Liberian student community for organizing what he described as a memorable celebration of Liberia’s history, identity, and enduring friendship with India.
Reflecting on Liberia’s 179-year journey since attaining independence on July 26, 1847, Senator Bartekwa said the nation’s history has been defined by resilience, perseverance, courage, and determination despite periods of immense difficulty.
He stressed that Independence Day should serve not only as a commemoration of Liberia’s historic founding but also as a national call to renew commitments to liberty, justice, democratic governance, national unity, peace, and sustainable development.
Addressing Liberians living overseas, the Grand Kru County Senator emphasized that patriotism extends beyond geographical boundaries.
“Wherever you reside, you remain custodians of our nation’s image,” Senator Bartekwa declared, noting that the conduct, professionalism, and achievements of Liberians abroad significantly influence how the country is perceived by the international community.
Speaking directly to Liberian students enrolled at Sharda University and other higher learning institutions across India, the Senator described education as the most powerful instrument for national transformation.
He urged the students to remain focused on their academic pursuits, respect India’s laws and cultural traditions, embrace diversity, and build lasting relationships that strengthen cooperation between Liberia and India.
According to Senator Bartekwa, the knowledge, professional skills, and international exposure acquired abroad must ultimately be invested in Liberia through responsible leadership, innovation, public service, entrepreneurship, and professional excellence.
“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.
Speaking in his capacity as Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the University of Liberia, Senator Bartekwa reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to advancing academic excellence, research, innovation, ethical leadership, and the development of graduates capable of addressing both national and global challenges.
He emphasized that the University’s mission extends beyond awarding academic degrees, focusing instead on producing competent, principled, and service-oriented graduates who will contribute meaningfully to Liberia’s social and economic transformation.
The Senator also praised the longstanding diplomatic and educational relationship between Liberia and India, describing it as a strategic partnership that continues to expand through higher education, healthcare, technical cooperation, commerce, scholarships, professional training, and cultural exchange.
He observed that hundreds of Liberian students are currently pursuing higher education in India, describing the trend as a clear demonstration of India’s significant contribution to Liberia’s human capital development.
According to him, strengthening educational partnerships remains essential to building stronger national institutions, expanding opportunities for young Liberians, and accelerating sustainable national development.
Senator Bartekwa further commended the leadership, faculty, and administration of Sharda University for providing an academic environment that empowers Liberian students to excel intellectually, professionally, and personally.
He noted that the University’s commitment to international education continues to promote global cooperation, mutual understanding, and shared development.
Turning to Liberia’s future, Senator Bartekwa called on all Liberians to remain steadfast in promoting peace, democratic governance, accountability, transparency, the rule of law, and sustained investment in education, describing these principles as indispensable pillars for building a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient nation.
He also encouraged Liberian students to cultivate integrity, humility, ethical leadership, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment to national service, reminding them that their achievements would ultimately benefit not only their families but the entire Republic of Liberia.
Concluding his address, Senator Bartekwa extended heartfelt congratulations to Liberians across the globe on the nation’s 179th Independence Anniversary and urged citizens everywhere to unite in building a Liberia where education thrives, justice prevails, opportunities expand, and every citizen has the chance to contribute meaningfully to national progress.
He also offered prayers for the continued prosperity of Sharda University, the Republic of India, and the Republic of Liberia before wishing Liberians around the world a peaceful and memorable Independence celebration.
The Independence Day programme formed part of Senator Bartekwa’s official visit to India, during which he is expected to hold high-level discussions with the leadership of Sharda University aimed at strengthening institutional cooperation with the University of Liberia through academic exchange programmes, collaborative research, faculty development initiatives, and other mutually beneficial educational partnerships.
