CUTTINGTON UNIVERSITY, LIBERIA – Cuttington University’s Department of Public Administration wrapped up the academic semester with its annual Leadership Skills Training Seminar (PAD 401)—a capstone event designed to equip students with the practical tools, ethical grounding, and civic mindset essential for public service in Liberia.
Held under the School of Business and Public Administration, the full-day seminar featured student-led presentations, engaging panels, and a keynote address that spotlighted the evolving role of women in leadership. The theme: “Women’s Leadership in a Male-Dominated Society”, delivered by Dr. Edna G. Johnny, Associate Professor of Economics at the University of Liberia and President of the University of Liberia Faculty Association, struck a powerful chord with attendees.“The level of engagement from the students was amazing,” Dr. Johnny shared. “It was truly an interactive and meaningful experience.”
Leadership in Action
According to Mr. John G. Fomba, Chairperson of the Department of Public Administration, the PAD 401 seminar marks the culmination of a semester-long leadership development journey.“This is something we plan from the beginning of the semester,” Mr. Fomba noted. “From the way today’s program unfolded, it was very, very successful.”
PAD 401 introduces students to leadership models, public ethics, and real-world application through consistent interaction with professionals and mentors. Mr. Fomba emphasized that the department’s goal extends beyond academics:“We’re not just building knowledge—we’re nurturing purpose and accountability in Liberia’s future leaders.”
Challenging Norms: Women in Leadership
Dr. Johnny’s keynote directly addressed Liberia’s cultural barriers to gender-inclusive leadership, challenging long-standing norms while affirming the growing visibility and impact of women leaders.“There’s this belief—rooted in tradition and even scripture—that men are the natural leaders,” she said. “But women are rising. We are working. We are participating. And we are proving that we can lead just as effectively.”
She cited figures like former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as evidence of progress and emphasized the role of education in dismantling inequality.“We are not weak. We are decision-makers and nation-builders.”
Student Reflections: Confidence and Purpose
Throughout the seminar, student voices were front and center. Melvina Hills, a senior Public Administration student, called the experience “empowering.”“This seminar gave me confidence in my leadership potential,” she said. “It showed me that leadership starts with believing in yourself and standing for others.”
Eric Veihn, President of the 2024/2025 II Leadership Class, offered a heartfelt vote of thanks to faculty and fellow students:“This experience has been transformative. It reminded us that we are not just students—we are future leaders of this country.”
Alumni Impact: From Campus to Country
The PAD 401 course has already produced tangible national impact. Mr. Fomba proudly pointed to former students now holding influential roles in government, including Hon. Bintu Massaly, now a lawmaker, and Amelia Cassell, serving as Land Commissioner in Bong County.“These stories show the transformative power of this course. Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about values and impact,” he said.
Addressing Liberia’s Leadership Deficit
Mr. Fomba offered a sobering assessment of Liberia’s ongoing challenges, citing leadership failures as a critical barrier to national development.“Liberia is blessed with natural wealth, yet too many of our people live in poverty. Consistent, capable leadership could change that.”
He stressed that universities must be part of the solution by instilling ethics and vision in tomorrow’s leaders.
A Call to Lead
As the seminar concluded, Dr. Johnny encouraged students to step confidently into leadership rolesno matter how small.“Each of you is a leader in your own right,” she told the class. “Be selfless. Be responsible. Lead with integrity whether you’re serving a nation or a neighborhood.”
Mr. Fomba closed the program with words of gratitude and a challenge:“This is just the beginning. We are committed to producing ethical, transformative leaders who will help shape a better Liberia.”
About the Speakers
Dr. Edna G. Johnny is an Associate Professor at the University of Liberia and a leading advocate for inclusive leadership and educational reform.
Mr. John G. Fomba is Chairperson of the Department of Public Administration at Cuttington University, where he leads initiatives in leadership training and public service development.
