12/14/2025
Grand Gedeh University Agriculture Students Appeal to Vice President Koung for Practical Support to the University
By: Matthew Konah
Dec. 13, 2025.
GOMPA CITY - A delegation of students from Grand Gedeh University, primarily from the Department of Agriculture, has appealed to Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung to intervene in improving practical learning facilities at the institution, particularly within the agriculture program.
The delegation, led by student representative Varneh Karneah, made the appeal during an official field trip to Nimba County. Karneah explained that since the establishment of Grand Gedeh University, agriculture students have faced serious challenges due to the lack of practical equipment and hands-on training opportunities. He noted that the absence of practical experience has negatively affected students’ ability to fully develop skills in their areas of specialization.
The students praised Vice President Koung for his continued commitment to education and agricultural transformation across Liberia. They presented four key recommendations aimed at strengthening youth capacity and improving agricultural education. Among these was a call for the construction of a modern soil science laboratory to enhance students’ knowledge of soil preparation, boost agricultural productivity in the county, and contribute to national food security.
Additionally, the students requested the establishment of a student exchange program to allow learners gain exposure and return with improved knowledge and skills. They also appealed for the construction of a modern irrigation system on campus and the provision of agricultural materials for practical training. These materials include farm tools such as cutlasses and hoes, soil testing kits, seeds and fertilizers, protective gear, and machinery for field demonstrations.
Speaking on behalf of the department, the Head of the Agriculture Department, Emmanuel Jallah, emphasized that the availability of these materials would significantly improve students’ learning experiences. He stressed that such support would ensure graduates leave the university not only with academic degrees but also with the practical skills required to contribute meaningfully to Liberia’s agricultural sector.
Receiving the students’ petition on behalf of the Vice President, the Vice President’s Agriculture Consultant, Sylvester Kpai, commended the students for taking the bold step to visit Nimba County, including his farm, Kpallama Agro Inc. Kpai shared his professional experiences with the students and encouraged them to fully embrace practical agriculture, noting that globally, hands-on experience is highly valued.
He further cautioned that obtaining a degree without adequate practical training amounts to a waste of time and resources. Kpai assured the delegation that their concerns would be presented to the Vice President for consideration, particularly in improving facilities at Grand Gedeh University’s Agriculture Department, which aligns with the Vice President’s area of specialization.
Kpai also pledged to provide internship opportunities for at least six students from Grand Gedeh University to strengthen their practical skills and knowledge, emphasizing that agriculture is not solely about earning a degree but about the time and effort invested in practice.
During a visit to Kpallama Agro Inc., student leader Emmanuel Jallah expressed gratitude to Mr. Kpai for sharing his knowledge and experience. He assured that the lessons learned would be taken back and applied, while also thanking the people of Nimba County for their hospitality and support during the field trip.
