His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., President of the Republic of Liberia, addressed graduates of the Regional Maritime University, urging them to maintain discipline, focus, hard work, and prayerfulness in their pursuits. Speaking as Commencement Speaker and Chief Guest of Honor at the 18th Graduation Ceremony in Accra, Ghana on June 29, 2024, President Boakai emphasized the importance of character and determination for achieving success beyond academic accomplishments.
President Boakai expressed appreciation for the establishment of the Regional Maritime University and commended visionary leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah and John Agyekum Kufuor for their roles in its progress. He praised the university's leadership and faculty for their dedication, which has positioned it as a leading maritime educational institution in Africa.
Highlighting the significance of international trade via shipping, President Boakai lauded the vision of RMU’s five member states—Cameroon, Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone—in establishing a regional maritime university. "Knowing that shipping would ultimately be the primary source of international trade and commerce, there was found the need for the region and the continent to prepare for leveraging this opportunity," he stated.
President Boakai announced plans for collaboration between RMU in Ghana and Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI) to expand educational programs. He also pledged support for expanding student accommodation facilities at RMU.
As Liberia holds the position of having the world’s largest ship registry by gross tonnage, President Boakai underscored maritime education's role in national development. He reaffirmed the importance of institutions like LMTI and RMU in fostering sector growth.
In recognition of his contributions to humanity, President Boakai was conferred with a 'Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa' by RMU. Expressing gratitude to all involved in this honor, he congratulated graduates and encouraged them to embrace dedication and excellence in their future endeavors.
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