Monrovia – The Alexander B. Cummings Model Science and Technology School (ABCMSTS) proudly celebrated the graduation of 29 students at its 3rd annual commencement ceremonyon Saturday, September 28, 2024.
The event, held in the school’s auditorium, highlighted the graduating seniors as well as the academic achievements of all Honor students were highlighted in the program.
The school follows the curriculum of the Ministry of Education and infuses electives of ICT, Nursing Aid and Agriculture to ensure its students readiness to pursue higher education and careers in agriculture, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The school is rated as one the best STEM schools in Liberia.
Distinguished guests, including Mrs. Teresa Cummings, and Mahmud Johnson, Executive Director of J-Palm Liberia, joined other notable figures to congratulate the graduates on their accomplishments. The ceremony marked another milestone for ABCMSTS as it continues to solidify its reputation as a leading institution in Liberia, dedicated to cultivating the next generation of agronomists, scientists, engineers, and technologists.
In their speeches, school administrators, Mrs. Madia Herring Mensah (Principal) and Ms. H. Jande Golakai (Vice Principal), lauded the graduates for their perseverance and commitment to academic excellence. They emphasized that the skills and knowledge acquired at ABCMSTS will empower the students to make meaningful contributions to society both locally and globally.
Mahmud Johnson, the keynote speaker, inspired the graduates to harness their STEM education to become leaders and problem-solvers in their communities. He encouraged them to embrace innovation, remain curious and continue learning. “Congratulations to the graduates and their parents because this is your celebration as well,” Johnson said. Reflecting on the value of vision and determination, he urged the graduates to remain focused amidst distractions, remarking, “If you have a clear vision, implementation becomes easier. Without it, life becomes a struggle.”
Elias M. Chebli, the class valedictorian, entered ABCMSTS in grade 7 and distinguished himself as a Diamond scholar. He delivered an emotional speech, expressing pride in his peers and
gratitude to the school’s teachers, mentors, and administrators. “Valedictorian is a title earned, not given,” he said, acknowledging the support he received along the way. Chebli also reminded his classmates of the challenges they had overcome and those that lie ahead. “True happiness is not just about the destination but also about the journey we’ve shared together,” he reflected.
Encouraging his peers to persevere, he added, “The road to success is filled with obstacles, but you must keep your focus and never give up.”
Elias along with more than fifty percent of his classmates are already pursuing their next level of academic sojourns in institutions of higher learning.
Aaron Weah Jergbon, the class sponsor, praised the graduates for their growth over the years. “Today, you stand ready to turn the next chapter of your life. As your class sponsor, I am immensely proud of all you have accomplished,” Jergbon remarked.
The ABCMSTS is sponsored by the Cummings Africa Foundation (CAF), which provides financial support and subsidizes to the school as part of its ongoing investment in education. Speaking at the event, Madam Teresa Cummings, Co-founder of CAF, expressed her appreciation to the graduates for their dedication to their studies. She also thanked the Cummings Africa Foundation Board and the ABCMSTS Board for their commitment to maintaining the school’s standards.
Mrs. Cummings acknowledged the parents for trusting the school to educate their children. “This is just the first building block. Now they must take the next step, and I know you will be there for them,” she said. She encouraged the graduates to stay connected with one another and support each other throughout their lives. “Don’t just leave school and say, ‘I am done with you,’” she advised.
Mrs. Cummings further urged the graduates to view “No” not as a rejection, but as a redirection. “Don’t let ‘No’ stop you. Keep going. Become that doctor, that nurse, that IT director, that business owner, or whatever you aspire to be,” she encouraged.
On behalf of the Cummings Africa Foundation, Mrs. Cummings awarded full four years scholarships to Elias M. Chebli, the valedictorian, and Denzel Abu Kerkula Jr., the salutatorian, for any university of their choice up to a master’s degree level.
Earlier, the school held its Baccalaureate Service at the First United Methodist Church in Monrovia. Rev. Dr. Erlene Perry Thompson, in her keynote address, called on the graduates to use their education to practice honesty, which would lead to integrity.
The salutatorian, Denzel Abu Kerkula Jr., expressed gratitude to his parents and teachers and encouraged his peers to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. “While the road ahead may be arduous, let us not forget to find joy in the journey,” he said.
The graduation ceremony, filled with joy and reflection, marked the beginning of new opportunities for the graduates as they embark on the next chapter of their academic and personal journeys.
About ABCMSTS
The Alexander B. Cummings Model Science and Technology School (ABCMSTS) is a STEM-focused institution. It is located on Duport Road in Paynesville, Montserrado County. Established in 2015 through a public-private partnership between the Government of Liberia and the Liberia Coca-Cola Bottling Company, the school is subsidized by the Cummings Africa Foundation. It provides comprehensive STEM education for students from 7th to 12th grades, with the aim of fostering early interest in STEM fields, preparing students for higher education and careers in science, technology, agriculture, engineering, and mathematics.
