MONROVIA — Liberia’s Charge d’Affaires accredited to Doha, the State of Qatar, and a 1993 graduate of the First Assembly of God High School, Ali Sylla, noted in a keynote address to his fellow alumni that education is not just a pathway—it is the most powerful force people can use to transform lives.
By Abraham Kolleh Morris, Contributing Writer
Serving as the keynote speaker over the weekend at the First Assembly of God High School Alumni Association Homecoming, Charge d’Affaires Sylla further stressed that education is the light that shines in the darkest corners, the force that breaks down barriers, and the tool that builds futures.
“I stand here today not as an exception but as an example of what education can do for individuals, families, and entire communities. To the First Assembly of God High School students who are listening today, know this: the education you are receiving is more than just knowledge; it is the foundation upon which you will build your lives,” Sylla explained.
He continued, “To the faculty and staff of First Assembly of God High School, your commitment to the education and well-being of your students is immeasurable. You are the architects of our future, and we owe you a debt of gratitude for your unwavering dedication and guidance. You are not just educators—you are life-changers.”
He admonished his fellow alumni to continue to carry the torch of their alma mater high. “Let us continue to contribute to the growth and development of this school, community, and nation. We are not just products of a school but ambassadors of its mission, vision, and values. Let us give back to the institution that gave so much to us, and in doing so, lift future generations to heights even more significant than our own.”
“Today, we gather not only as individuals but as a collective force, united by our shared experiences and the enduring spirit of First Assembly of God High School. This homecoming celebrates our shared journey, a testament to the enduring power of faith, hard work, and community,” Sylla emphasized.
Alumni Phil Dixon, Chairman of the Planning Committee, providing an overview of the program, noted that the spirit of the homecoming was to raise funds to revive the school from its current poor state.
He encouraged his fellow alumni not to waver in contributing to the institution where their educational journey began, noting that funds generated would go towards the renovation of the entire school and help less privileged students receive scholarships.
Also speaking, the Acting Chairman of the Alumni Association, Alfred Boakai, committed his leadership to working closely with the church to ensure that the school regains its lost glory.
According to him, his leadership is optimistic that, by working with the Planning Committee, they will ensure that all funds collected will go towards the total renovation and restoration of the school.
Several prominent alumni made remarks and contributed immensely toward the alumni fund drive. Some key figures included Representative Anthony Williams of Electoral District Two, Maryland County; Representative Emmanuel Dahn of Electoral District Seven, Montserrado County; Assistant Minister Karishma Pellham-Raad; former Presidential Aide Sekou Kalasco Damaro; and former Deputy Managing Director for Operations at the Liberia Telecommunications Corporation, Anderson Slober Chea.
Other prominent alumni included Deputy Registrar of the Cooperative Development Agency Edwina J. Boima, businessmen Musa Sheriff and Yayah Jalloh, as well as senior banking executive Mohamed Nyei, among several others.
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