Dr. Cassell Challenges TU to Lead in Research, Innovation

WVSTU: Executive Director of National Commission on Higher Education, Dr. Cecelia Cassell, has challenged William V. S. Tubman University (TU) to capitalize on its strategic location and academic mandate to become a leading center for research, innovation, and practical solutions to Liberia's development challenges.

Delivering the keynote address at TU's 17th Opening Convocation for the 2026-2027 Academic Year on Monday, Dr. Cassell said the University occupies a unique position in southeastern Liberia, a region of significant ecological, economic, cultural, and developmental importance.

"William V. S. Tubman University, by virtue of its location and mandate, has an extraordinary opportunity," she said, stressing that TU has the potential to become a major hub for research and innovation serving Maryland County, southeastern Liberia, and the country.

Dr. Cassell urged faculty members and researchers to move beyond classroom-based scholarship and engage directly with communities to better understand the challenges confronting ordinary Liberians.

"Go into our communities. Listen to our farmers. Study our schools. Examine our health systems. Investigate our environmental challenges. Study our markets. Document our cultural heritage. Understand the realities of our young people," she urged.

According to Dr. Cassell, universities must transform knowledge and community experiences into meaningful research capable of influencing public policy, driving innovation, and improving livelihoods.

"Liberia needs universities that investigate Liberia," she declared, identifying agriculture, fisheries, mining, public health, education, climate resilience, governance, entrepreneurship, technology, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability as critical areas for research.

Dr. Cassell also acknowledged Tubman University's contribution to higher education and national development, noting that the institution continues to nurture talent and prepare future leaders despite challenges facing Liberia's higher education sector.

Turning to the students, she reminded them that they remain at the heart of the University's mission. "You are the reason universities exist. You are not merely numbers on enrollment statistics. You are not simply recipients of lectures," she said.

She emphasized that TU must prepare graduates who are knowledgeable, ethical, innovative, and entrepreneurial, while creating an environment "where knowledge is transformed into solutions, research is transformed into action, and education is transformed into opportunity."

"Let us prepare graduates who will not only seek employment, but who will create jobs, build enterprises, serve their communities, and contribute meaningfully to national development," Dr. Cassell said.

She concluded by encouraging TU's leadership, faculty, staff, and students to remain committed to excellence, accountability, integrity, innovation, and student success, expressing confidence that the University can continue producing graduates who will contribute to building "a stronger and more prosperous Liberia." See less