FENDALL, LIBERIA – Seventy-two students of the UL-Amos Sawyer (ACS) College successfully completed their rigorous thesis and capstone defenses, marking a significant academic milestone ahead of the College’s 105th graduation convocation scheduled for February 25, 2026, at the University of Liberia’s Fendall campus.
The two-week-long defense exercise, held at the Thelma E. Duncan Sawyer Faculty Lounge, showcased the students’ dedication, resilience, and mastery of their respective research topics. The event was conducted under the oversight of the College’s distinguished thesis panel, chaired by external examiner Assistant Prof. Alex O. Teaway, MSc, alongside a team of experienced professors and academic advisors.
“This rigorous academic exercise demonstrates the commitment of our students to excellence and the high standards set by ACS College,” said Dean Josephus M. Gray, Ph.D, who observed the sessions. “Their hard work reflects the College’s mission to cultivate critical thinking and scholarly competence.”
Students from six academic departments participated in the defense, including Communication and Media Studies, English and Language Studies, Geography, Social Work, French Studies, and Political Science. Each candidate presented their thesis or capstone, outlining the statement of the problem, research objectives, methodology, significant findings, and implications of their work.
During the defenses, students faced probing questions and discussions from panel members, testing not only their knowledge but also their ability to think critically under pressure. Observers noted that the students responded with poise and demonstrated exceptional intellectual rigor.
The ACS College thesis panel consisted of seasoned academicians including Assistant Prof. Nathaniel Gbessagee, Ph.D (Co-chair), Prof. D. Elliott Wreh-Wilson, Ph.D (Advisor), Assistant Prof. Moses C.T Jarbo, Ph.D (Advisor), and others, ensuring a fair and thorough evaluation process. Legal Consultant Assistant Prof. Cllr. Mark Bedor-Wla Freeman, LLB, MA, MA, also contributed as a member of the panel.
Special acknowledgment was given to the six department chairpersons who guided students through the preparation process: Assistant Prof. Dr. Kula Thompson-Williams (English), Mrs. Paula McBorrough Kendor (French), Assistant Prof. Hon. Richmond S. Anderson (Political Science), Euriahs M. Togar (Communication), Assistant Prof. Rev. Jethro S. Tamba (Geography), and Joseph Kporkuyu (Social Work). Their mentorship was credited with elevating the quality of the presentations.
President of the University of Liberia, Dr. Layli Maparyan, expressed appreciation for the students’ commitment, noting that the defenses are a critical demonstration of the College’s academic standards and the preparation of graduates for professional and civic contributions.
In recognition of their successful completion of the thesis defense requirement, all 72 students will receive certificates of attestation from the Dean’s Office, a formal acknowledgment of their achievement and adherence to ACS College’s rigorous academic policies.
The ACS College thesis and capstone defense not only highlights the intellectual capabilities of its students but also underscores the University of Liberia’s ongoing commitment to fostering excellence in higher education, preparing graduates to lead with knowledge, skill, and ethical responsibility in Liberia and beyond.
