Conor O’Brien, Chief Financial Officer of ArcelorMittal Liberia, delivered a powerful and inspiring message to the incoming class of the African Bible College University (ABCU), urging them to embrace the transformative power of education and to prepare themselves for a future of service and leadership in Liberia. O’Brien’s address, delivered during the university’s matriculation ceremony, served as a call to action for the 34 new students and a reminder to returning students of the profound responsibility that comes with the pursuit of higher education. He emphasized the importance of discipline, diligence, and a commitment to personal growth as essential ingredients for success, both individually and for the betterment of the nation.
O’Brien framed the students’ academic journey within the context of their own personal development and their role in shaping the future of Liberia. He stressed that university life marks a transition from being beneficiaries of their parents’ aspirations to becoming custodians of their own destinies. This newfound autonomy, he cautioned, must be tempered with discipline and a clear understanding of the potential pitfalls that can derail even the most promising futures. He specifically warned against the dangers of substance abuse, highlighting the devastating impact of drugs and alcohol on the lives of young Liberians and urging the students to resist the allure of these temporary pleasures in favor of pursuing lasting progress.
Connecting the students’ academic pursuits to the broader economic landscape of Liberia, O’Brien highlighted the significant role of ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Phase II Expansion in creating opportunities for the nation’s youth. He explained that the company’s investment extends beyond increasing production to encompass the development of critical infrastructure, such as railways and port facilities, and, most importantly, the creation of avenues for employment and skills development. He emphasized that the knowledge and skills acquired at ABCU would equip the students to capitalize on these emerging opportunities and contribute meaningfully to Liberia’s economic growth.
O’Brien further underscored the growing partnership between ArcelorMittal Liberia and ABCU, citing the recent collaboration between the university and the company’s Training Academy as a testament to their shared commitment to developing Liberia’s human capital. He envisioned further cooperation in areas such as leadership training and bridging the gap between academic learning and practical workplace experience. This collaborative approach, he argued, is crucial for preparing students for leadership roles across various sectors, from business and governance to ministry and community development. He reiterated ArcelorMittal Liberia’s commitment to working alongside institutions like ABCU to ensure that Liberia’s young people are well-prepared to lead the nation’s progress.
Addressing the newly matriculated students directly, O’Brien reiterated that their journey at ABCU marked not an end but a beginning. He encouraged them to view every lecture, assignment, and challenge as a stepping stone towards greater understanding and personal growth. He emphasized that their education was not solely for their individual benefit but also for the transformation of their families, communities, and ultimately, the entire nation. He urged them to embrace the responsibility of becoming agents of change and to contribute to the building of a stronger and more prosperous Liberia.
In his concluding remarks, O’Brien challenged the students to strive for wisdom, discipline, and compassion, qualities he identified as essential for effective leadership and national development. He reiterated the importance of their role in shaping the future of Liberia, emphasizing the nation’s need for men and women of character and integrity. His message resonated with the students, inspiring them to embrace the opportunities before them and to commit themselves to a future of service and leadership. O’Brien’s address served as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of education and the vital role of partnerships between industry and academia in fostering national development.
