By: Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
The leadership of the United Methodist University Alumni Association has held a high-level engagement with Manoj Bihari Verma aimed at strengthening educational cooperation and expanding development opportunities for the United Methodist University.
The meeting, held Wednesday in Monrovia, brought together officials of the alumni association led by its President, Emmett P. Coker, and representatives of the Embassy of India to discuss strategic areas of collaboration focused on institutional growth, professional training, and academic support for students and alumni of the university.
During the engagement, Ambassador Verma reaffirmed the Government of India’s commitment to supporting educational and institutional development initiatives in Liberia, emphasizing India’s interest in deepening cooperation with academic institutions across the country.
A major outcome of the meeting was the announcement that the United Methodist University has now been included under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme, commonly known as the ITEC Programme.
The ITEC Programme is one of India’s flagship international cooperation initiatives that provides professional training, technical cooperation, scholarships, and capacity-building opportunities to partner countries worldwide.
According to Ambassador Verma, the inclusion of the university under the program will provide opportunities for faculty members, students, and alumni to benefit from specialized training and educational advancement initiatives sponsored by the Government of India.
The Indian diplomat also pledged support toward the donation of classroom chairs and educational books to the university as part of efforts to improve the institution’s learning environment and strengthen its academic resources.
Discussions during the meeting further focused on plans to establish an “India Corner” on the campus of United Methodist University.
The initiative is expected to serve as an educational and cultural engagement platform through which the Embassy of India will regularly interact with students and faculty members.
According to UMUAA release, the proposed initiative would host lecture series, educational and cultural exchange activities, diplomatic discussions, scholarship awareness programs, seminars on India–Liberia relations, as well as presentations on technology, innovation, and global educational opportunities.
Speaking during the meeting, UMUAA President Emmett P. Coker praised the Government of India for what he described as its openness and commitment toward supporting educational transformation and youth empowerment in Liberia.
Mr. Coker said the engagement represents a significant milestone in strengthening international collaboration between the university and India while creating new pathways for academic and professional development.
He further noted that partnerships of such nature remain critical to improving educational standards and expanding opportunities for young Liberians seeking global exposure and professional advancement.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to promoting education, cultural diplomacy, professional development, and international cooperation for the benefit of students and future generations in Liberia.
