20/05/2026
Credit: United Methodist university Alumni Association.
"UMUAA Leadership Holds Fruitful Engagement with Indian Ambassador on University Support and Strategic Partnership
Monrovia, Liberia – May 20, 2026 – The leadership of the United Methodist University Alumni Association (UMUAA), headed by its President, Mr. Emmett P. Coker, today held a successful and productive diplomatic engagement meeting with His Excellency Amb. Manoj Bihari Verman, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to the Republic of Liberia.
The meeting focused on exploring strategic areas of collaboration and support aimed at strengthening the growth and development of the United Methodist University (UMU) and advancing educational opportunities for students and alumni.
During the engagement, His Excellency Ambassador Verman reaffirmed the Government of India’s commitment to supporting educational and institutional development initiatives in Liberia.
As part of this commitment, the Ambassador disclosed that the United Methodist University has now been included under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme, thereby creating new opportunities for capacity building, professional training, and educational advancement for the University.
The ITEC Programme, a flagship initiative of the Government of India, provides professional training, technical cooperation, scholarships, and institutional support to partner countries around the world.
Additionally, Ambassador Verman committed support toward the donation of classroom chairs and educational books to the University as part of ongoing efforts to improve the learning environment and strengthen academic resources at UMU.
The meeting also discussed collaboration with the University authorities toward the establishment of the “India Corner”, a proposed flagship educational and cultural engagement initiative to be hosted on the campus of the United Methodist University.
The “India Corner” initiative is expected to serve as a once or twice monthly platform through which the Embassy of India will engage students and faculty through: Lecture series; Educational and cultural exchanges; Diplomatic discussions; Scholarship awareness programs; Technology and innovation presentations; and Seminars on India–Liberia relations and global opportunities.
Speaking during the meeting, UMUAA President Mr. Emmett P. Coker expressed profound appreciation to Ambassador Verman and the Government of India for their openness, partnership, and commitment toward supporting educational transformation and youth empowerment in Liberia.
Mr. Coker noted that the engagement represents a significant milestone in strengthening international collaboration between the United Methodist University and the Republic of India.
The meeting further reaffirmed the shared commitment of both parties toward promoting education, cultural diplomacy, professional development, and international cooperation for the benefit of students and future generations."
