MONROVIA, LIBERIA – In a groundbreaking academic partnership, Grand Kru Technical College (GKTC) on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Sharda University of India. The signing ceremony, held at the Boulevard Palace in Sinkor, Monrovia, marked an important milestone in Liberia’s higher education landscape, fostering international collaboration between the two institutions.
Speaking at the event, the Acting President of Grand Kru Technical College, Prof. Dr. Josephus Gbala-hinnih Moses Gray, stressed the historic nature of the agreement. He reflected on his longstanding relationship with Mr. Sachin Saini, Manager of the International Relations Division at Sharda University, which began in 2002 when Saini visited the University of Liberia. “I did not close the door on Mr. Saini when he first visited. Instead, I embraced the opportunity, and today, our relationship extends beyond friendship; it is a brotherhood,” Dr. Gray remarked.
He emphasized that this partnership was not limited to academic exchange but was also a bridge connecting Liberia and India. “This is a momentous occasion for Grand Kru Technical College. We are creating pathways for generations to benefit from international educational opportunities,” Dr. Gray said. He also disclosed that a book on the Liberian-Indian governance system, co-authored by professors from both countries, will be launched in June with sponsorship from Sharda University.
The signing ceremony also featured remarks from key stakeholders in Liberia’s education sector. Representing the National Commission on Higher Education (NCHE), Prof. Nathaniel G. Gbessagee, PhD, commended the initiative, emphasizing its alignment with the Commission’s efforts to improve higher education standards. “This partnership exemplifies the kind of international collaboration we encourage to enhance faculty exchange, research, and STEM education,” he said.
Senator Numene T.H. Bartekwa, Chairman of the University of Liberia (UL) Board of Trustees and the Grand Kru County Legislative Caucus, recounted the journey leading to the establishment of Grand Kru Technical College. “In 2016, I proposed a bill to create a vocational and technical institute, which was later elevated to a technical college in 2019. This partnership proves that Grand Kru College is now a force in Liberia’s academic sector,” he stated.
Senator Bartekwa lauded the efforts of Dr. Gray in steering the institution toward international recognition despite criticism. “When you make progress, expect criticism. But today, we are witnessing the fruits of hard work and dedication,” he said, urging students and faculty to maximize the opportunities the partnership will bring.
Indian Ambassador to Liberia, His Excellency Manoj Bihari Verma, hailed the MOU as a testament to the deepening ties between India and Liberia. “Education is the foundation of progress, and partnerships like this provide students with invaluable opportunities. India and Liberia share strong historical ties, and I am delighted that Sharda University is expanding its presence in Liberia,” the Ambassador noted.
He revealed that the Indian government continues to offer scholarships and training programs for Liberian students and professionals. “There are currently two open scholarship schemes on the K2A portal, covering bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. programs. Additionally, short-term courses in IT, artificial intelligence, and health are available for Liberian professionals,” he stated.
Rep. P. Mark Jurry of Maryland County, Chairman of the House Committee on Ways, Means, and Finance, described the agreement as more than just an academic partnership. “This is a bridge between Liberia and India. Education partnerships should not be limited to classrooms but should extend to communities and impact lives,” he said.
He emphasized that the MOU should be maximized to its full potential, benefiting not just students but also faculty and the broader Grand Kru community. “This is an opportunity to enhance bilateral educational cooperation, cultural exchange, and economic growth,” Rep. Jurry added.
Following the speeches, the historic agreement was formally signed. Prof. Dr. Gray affixed his signature on behalf of Grand Kru Technical College, while Mr. Sachin Saini signed on behalf of Sharda University and the Sharda Group of Companies.
The agreement includes scholarships, faculty and student exchanges, medical training, credit transfer arrangements, and scholarship opportunities for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies. It also covers short, medium, and long-term training programs, joint research projects, curriculum development, and collaborative publications.
The event was attended by high-profile figures, including Dr. Nathaniel G. Gbessagee, Assistant Professor Cllr. Mark Bedor-Wla Freeman, Assistant Professor Richmond S. Anderson, Rev. Ben Cooper of the NCHE Board of Trustees, Rev. P. Tenenso Brohdonyen, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Mr. P. Dan Jah Bestman, Vice President for Administration of Grand Kru Technical College, among others.
