By: Gbayor Charles Gbayor | UM News Monrovia
Johnsonville, Monsterrado: The United Methodist University (UMU) Alumni Association has announced an ambitious new project that aims to significantly enhance the learning environment at the university. During the 20th Graduation Commencement Convocation, which took place at the Liberty Christian Center in Johnsonville, the Alumni Association revealed plans to construct 16 modern classrooms in Dormah Town. This project reflects the association’s deep commitment to the university’s growth and its role in shaping the future of education in Liberia.
The pronouncement was made by the President of the UMU Alumni Association, Dioh Cox Podee, who highlighted the importance of the project in addressing the growing demand for quality learning spaces at the university. “We are thrilled to make this announcement today,” said President Podee. “The construction of these classrooms represents more than just bricks and mortar. It is our way of supporting the university in providing a conducive learning environment for students.”
The new classrooms will be built in Dormah Town, a location strategically selected for its proximity to the university. The UMU Alumni Association believes that expanding the university’s infrastructure will help ensure that students have access to high-quality facilities, fostering an environment where academic excellence can thrive.
For years, UMU has been known for its commitment to providing top-notch education. However, with an increasing number of students enrolling at the university, the existing classroom spaces have become insufficient. This new construction project is poised to address this issue, offering students a more comfortable and effective learning environment.
The announcement was made during the university’s 20th graduation ceremony, an event that brought together graduates, faculty, and alumni. The significance of the project was not lost on those in attendance, with many viewing it as a symbol of the alumni’s commitment to the university’s continued success.
President Podee emphasized that the project is not just a one-time effort but part of a broader initiative to ensure that the university remains at the forefront of academic excellence in Liberia. “As alumni, we understand the importance of giving back to the institution that shaped us. This project is our way of saying thank you and supporting the current and future students of UMU,” he said.
While the Alumni Association is spearheading the project, the collaboration between the university administration and the association is critical to its success. The project is part of a larger vision to expand the university’s facilities and improve its capacity to serve the growing student population. UMU’s administration has expressed gratitude for the alumni’s support, acknowledging that such contributions are vital to the institution’s progress.
The 16 classrooms are part of a larger, phased construction plan that will unfold over the course of three years. The Alumni Association has set a clear timeline for the completion of the project, and officials are confident that it will be completed as scheduled. The phased approach allows for careful planning and ensures that the project is executed to the highest standards.
“Completion of this project will be a significant milestone for UMU,” President Podee stated. “We are fully committed to ensuring that the project is completed on time and that the classrooms are built to meet the needs of both students and faculty. We have the full support of the alumni, and we are confident in the success of this endeavor.”
The funding for the construction will come from the fundraising dinner held in December of last year at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex. The event was a resounding success, with generous contributions from alumni and other supporters of the university. These funds will be used to finance the construction of the new classrooms and help UMU continue to thrive.
The construction of these classrooms will not only benefit current students but also future generations of learners. By creating a conducive environment for teaching and learning, the Alumni Association hopes to foster academic growth and help students reach their full potential.
The impact of this project extends beyond the classroom. By expanding the university’s infrastructure, the Alumni Association is also contributing to the local economy in Dormah Town. The construction work will provide employment opportunities for local laborers, contractors, and suppliers, further solidifying the project’s role in community development.
Furthermore, the new classrooms will serve as a symbol of the university’s commitment to innovation and progress. As education continues to evolve in Liberia, the construction of these modern facilities will help UMU stay competitive and provide students with the resources they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
The Alumni Association’s involvement in this project is a testament to the strength of the UMU community and the enduring bond between the university and its graduates. It is a clear demonstration of how alumni can play a crucial role in the advancement of their alma mater, ensuring that future generations have access to the best possible educational opportunities.
As the project moves forward, the Alumni Association remains focused on its goal of completing the 16 classrooms within three years. The commitment of the alumni to the university’s growth and success is a powerful reminder of the importance of community involvement in educational development. With the support of the UMU Alumni Association, United Methodist University is poised to continue its legacy of excellence in education, preparing students for success in the ever-evolving global landscape.
The construction of these new classrooms is a promising step forward for UMU and its students. It represents a collective effort to enhance the university’s infrastructure and create a more effective learning environment. As the project progresses, all eyes will be on the university as it strives to fulfill its mission of providing quality education to students for many years to come.
