-Releases Protocol
By Sampat Kpakimah
The United Methodist University (UMU) has announced strict protocols for its 21st Commencement Convocation, including a zero-tolerance policy on the consumption of alcoholic beverages at all ceremony venues. The disclosure was made during a press conference on March 18, 2026, at the university’s l Ashmun Street campus.
At the press conference, the University Acting President Ambassador Counselor Medina A. Wesseh,
also revealed a ban placed on selling within the immediate surroundings of both the baccalaureate and Convocation grounds. According to Amb. Wesseh, attendance at the Convocation will be strictly by invitation, except for graduating students. She emphasized that punctuality will be strictly enforced, urging graduates and their families to adhere to the scheduled time, as late arrivals will not be accommodated.
The University Acting President noted that these measures are intended to maintain order and preserve the sanctity of the ceremony venues, which are regarded as holy church grounds. She stated that the University will collaborate with the Liberia National Police (LNP) and its internal security personnel to ensure full compliance,
Additionally, Amb. Cllr. Wesseh disclosed that as part of the 21st commencement activities, the Winifred J. Harley College of Health Sciences, located in Ganta City, Nimba County, will host activities in the lead-up to the main Convocation. The Convocation is scheduled for Tuesday, March 31, 2026, and will see the University award degrees in various disciplines to students who have completed their academic journeys some within the standard four-year period and others beyond.
The event will mark the University’s 21st Commencement Convocation, with a total of 611 students expected to graduate. The process has received full approval from the UMU Board of Directors, chaired by Bishop Samuel J. Quire, Jr., who also serves as Bishop of the United Methodist Church in Liberia.
Providing further details at the news conference, Vice President for Admission, Recruitment, Registration, and Records, Rev. Dr. David Tokpah, announced that March 29, 2026, has been set for the Baccalaureate Service, while March 31 will host the official Convocation ceremony. Dr. Tokpah noted that the 611 graduates include students from the graduate school and nearly all departments of the University, except the Department of English under the College of Liberal Arts.
He further disclosed that 33 students will graduate with honors, with the highest Grade Point Average recorded at 3.74. The Vice President expressed gratitude to the graduating students for their hard work and dedication, and also commended faculty members and the student leadership for their cooperation throughout the academic period.
Meanwhile, the Interim Management Team has confirmed that Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, will serve as the Baccalaureate speaker and will be conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Law in recognition of her distinguished public service. Also, Dr. Deborah Rose, President of the Helping Africa Foundation and a renowned public health leader and educator, will serve as the Convocation keynote speaker and is also expected to receive an Honorary Doctorate Degree.
While the Convocation marks the end of the academic year, the University emphasized that its operations will continue. Registration for Semester III of the 2024–2025 academic year is currently ongoing.
Classes are expected to commence on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, as part of efforts to align UMU’s academic calendar with other universities across Liberia.
Founded in 2000, the United Methodist University has remained a leading institution in providing accessible and affordable education, with a strong emphasis on ethics, leadership, and service. Despite ongoing challenges, including financial constraints among some stakeholders, the University continues to play a transformative role in shaping Liberia’s future through education and community engagement.
