Kakata, Margibi County — A Liberian international aid worker, Sylvester Ndorbor Morlu, has praised the resilience and determination of the 173 graduating students of the St. Augustine's Episcopal Mission High School in Kakata City, Margibi County.
Mr. Morlu, a UNICEF staff member assigned to Sudan's Darfur region, delivering the keynote address on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the school's 56th graduation ceremony, described the occasion as a celebration of "Liberia's enduring resilience."
He commended the students for what he termed their "achievements amid adversity," noting that they had demonstrated an unyielding spirit reflective of Liberia's post-war recovery journey.
According to Mr. Morlu, many of the graduates overcame significant challenges to complete their education, including walking long distances or riding motorbikes in both dry and rainy seasons to attend classes.
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Recounting his own experiences as a former student of the institution, Mr. Morlu spoke of hardships he endured, including leaving campus in search of food and facing disciplinary action.
He encouraged the graduates to remain focused and disciplined, emphasizing that the decisions they make today will shape their future.
The international humanitarian worker also lauded the school's reported 90 percent pass rate in the WAEC Examinations, describing it as a testament to the students' hard work and commitment to academic excellence.
Mr. Morlu paid tribute to parents and guardians for their sacrifices in ensuring their children's education, particularly under difficult circumstances.
Mr. Morlu, who is also an alumnus of the school, urged the graduates to contribute meaningfully to Liberia's development in areas such as nursing, child protection, agriculture, cosmetology, baking, teaching, youth empowerment and community rebuilding.
He further encouraged those pursuing higher education at the University of Liberia, Cuttington University, vocational institutions or through entrepreneurship to uphold the values of discipline, integrity, respect and hard work.
Mr. Morlu cautioned the graduates against idleness and negative peer pressure, instead calling on them to become innovative problem-solvers committed to national progress.
He also honored past and present leaders of the institution, including its founder, the late Rev. Thomas J.O. Gooding, former Principal Edison T.V. Gbana, Prof. Allison P.J. Smith, Principal Andrew Indome, the late Dickson Pungo, James V.O. Ansah, Foster Okeyei, and Abe Kekula, in recognition of their contributions to the school's growth and legacy.
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"The world is yours, but Liberia is home. The decisions you made yesterday brought you here today, and the decisions you make today will determine your tomorrow," Mr. Morlu told the graduates.
He, however, congratulated the graduates and wished them success in their future endeavors, while invoking blessings upon Margibi County and Liberia.
