By: Austin S Fallah – A True Son of Liberia, Africa, and the Planet Earth Soil.

Happy Father’s Day to all the Fathers.

In the shade of a nation’s history, each thread represents the contributions of those who have endeavored to shape its course.

Amidst the myriad patterns that form the Liberian national mosaic, the threads woven by the progressives of the 1960s, 70s, and 80s stand vibrantly, although their full significance is yet to be universally acknowledged.

Bound by an unwavering commitment to the collective welfare, these young men and women fought valiantly with their intellect, passion, and blood for the total liberation and emancipation of their compatriots/fellow Liberians.

Their struggles paved the way for political, social, and economic reforms that now form the bedrock upon which a semblance of modern Liberia rests.

Yet, the recognition of their role remains largely a silent note in the symphony of Liberian history.

This adda argues for the formal acknowledgment of their contributions through the establishment of Progressives Day on April 12 and Presidents Day on November 29 under the Boakai-Koung Administration, as a reverent nod to the sacrifices made for the nation’s progressive transformation.

The Struggle of the Liberian Progressives:

The progressives of Liberia collectively mounted an intellectual insurgency against oppressive structures that immobilized the nation.

Engaged in a dual battle against bloodshed, corruption, and ignorance, these pioneers confronted a political regime that marginalized voices clamoring for change.

Their advocacy for democracy, transparency, and equal opportunities was seen as seditious by those in power but valiant in the annals of those yearning for liberty.

The youthful vigor and intellectual prowess of these (some gone home to be with our Creator) activists were instrumental in dismantling antiquated systems, thus granting future generations a chance to partake in the political sphere without fear or favor.

Many of the revolutionaries paid the ultimate sacrifice, and yet, as it stands today, their valor has been met with a disappointing lack of official and Liberia’s traditional ways of recognition.

The Need for Recognition:

It is a universally acknowledged truth that a nation’s progress is buoyed by the cumulative contributions of its citizens.

When the sacrifices of such individuals remain unrecognized, a disservice is done not just to them but also to the very ethos of gratitude and history itself.

The acknowledgment of the Liberian progressives’ struggles is not merely a ceremonial gesture. But it is an essential act that reaffirms the nation’s commitment to justice and provides an enduring example to future generations.

By institutionalizing Progressives Day and Presidents Day, Liberia can convey a powerful message that the labor for a fairer society does not go unnoticed and that heroes, whether they occupy presidential palaces or protest lines are equally esteemed.

Our Arguments for Progressives Day on April 12:

April 12 marks a significant turning point in Liberia’s history. A day remembered for the 1980 coup that ostensibly sought to correct years of social and political imbalances.

Honoring this day as Progressives Day would serve multiple purposes. (a) it would commemorate the determination of those who sought change, repurpose a day associated with violence into one of reflection and celebration of progress, and act as an annual reminder of the values of democracy and inclusivity that these progressives championed.

(b) It offers an opportunity for collective remembrance and renewed commitment to the principles for which many fought and sacrificed.

Arguments for Presidents Day on November 29:

(a) Similarly, designating November 29 as Presidents Day would acknowledge the leadership and policies of presidents who have shaped Liberia’s current governance structures.

(b) It acknowledges that positive change often requires both revolutionary fervor and steady governance. Presidents, past and present, often stand on the shoulders of the unnamed revolutionaries who have fought for the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.

(c) Celebrating Presidents Day would not only honor the office and the individuals but also create a sense of patriotism and cohesion, reinforcing the importance of democratic leadership and governance.

Our Call to Action: The Boakai-Koung Administration’s Role:

The Boakai-Koung Administration bears the mantle of transforming this proposition into reality.

This leadership presents the past, present, and future due to age.

By declaring these days of commemoration, they would be championing a new era of recognition and inclusivity.

It is a pivotal moment that would signal to Liberians and the world at large that the nation is ready to acknowledge its past heroes and redefine its future trajectory.

Such actions would contribute to healing historical wounds, inspiring civic pride, and fostering a deeper understanding of the foundational struggles that have shaped contemporary Liberia.

This recognition could invigorate a collective consciousness that values every individual’s role in nation-building, ultimately strengthening Liberia’s democratic institutions and promoting national unity.

The Liberian progressives of the 1960s, 70s, and 80s have laid down the infrastructural and ideological groundwork that has allowed names to rise to prominence in various governmental spheres.

Their sacrifices have been the silent sentinels of progress, often overlooked and seldom praised to the magnitude they deserve.

As such, it becomes imperative to enshrine days of observation Progressives Day on April 12 and Presidents Day on November 29, as formal markers of gratitude and reflection.

The recognition of those who fought and continue to fight for a better Liberia is a clarion call to uphold the principles of liberty, democracy, and social justice.

It is a gesture that fortifies the national identity and invigorates the spirit of patriotism.

Let the pages of history never forget the toils of its architects.

Let April 12 and November 29 henceforth be beacons of transformational memory, illuminating the path toward a united and thriving Liberia.

Integrating Essential Skills and Values into University Curricula: A Pathway to Empowerment and Integrity in Third-world Countries:

By: Austin S Fallah – A member of the Intellectual and Academic Kingdom, where those who have Washed their Intellectual Minds Clean can Sit and Drink from the Fountain of Academia Knowledge:

In the burgeoning economies of the third world, where the chasm between the privileged and the marginalized yawns wide, the role of education cannot be overstated.

It is in these nascent environments that the seeds of progress must be sown with the utmost consciousness toward integrity and societal welfare.

Therefore, it is paramount that university curricula, especially in third-world countries, embed administrative skills, a coherent understanding of ethics, customer service know-how, exemplar leadership lessons, entrepreneurial spirit, principles of good governance, the bedrock of public service, the rigor of critical thinking, the flair of innovation and creativity, and the poignant recognition of the danger of corruption.

This parley will argue that by assimilating these components into university curricula, not only will students be adept in their professions, but they will also become beacons of change, fervently working for the social, economic, and justice empowerment that leverages the greater good of society.

Administrative proficiency is fundamental for the efficient and effective management of any organization.

The meticulous nature of administrative skills sets the groundwork for current and future leaders, enabling them to design, organize, and maintain systems that support growth and sustainability.

The spotlight on administration in curricula would provide students with real-world scenarios that stress strategic planning, organizational behavior, and resource management.

As future leaders in government roles or private sectors, students must recognize the importance of effective administration in implementing policies that lead to societal improvement.

Ethics constitutes the moral foundation upon which any successful societal framework rests.

Its integration into university studies is not just advisable but rather compulsory.

Through ethical education, students internalize the principle of doing what is right, not convenient.

By delving into case studies of moral dilemmas, discussing the ethical implications of decision-making, and reflecting on ethical failings in history, students can emerge as leaders who channel their power towards decisions benefiting the community’s welfare, rather than serving self-interests.

Customer service excellence is another critical element that universities should teach.

In the age of globalization, the craft of maintaining positive client relationships transcends borders.

Students must understand the value of customer satisfaction and the role it plays in building a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness.

This knowledge can transform current and future leaders’ approach toward their citizens or customers, ensuring responsive, attentive, and empathetic governance and business practices.

Leadership is more than a role. It is the embodiment of influence and direction.

Through leadership education, students can learn to inspire teams, drive projects, and initiate change.

Cultivating this skill will prepare students for taking on roles that require foresight, decisiveness, and the capacity to motivate and guide others towards a common vision, whether in the corridors of government, the boardrooms of multinational corporations, or the grassroots of community organizations.

Entrepreneurship is the lifeblood of innovation and economic progress.

It fosters a mindset of creation and risk-taking that is invaluable for the development of third-world countries.

By incorporating entrepreneurship into the curriculum, universities will embolden students to envision new enterprises, identify market opportunities, and harness resources to fuel business growth and combat the specter of unemployment, thereby weaving the fabric of a robust economy.

Good governance forms the cornerstone of any successful polity.

It endows leaders with the wisdom to rule with accountability, transparency, and responsiveness, thereby building public trust.

Education in good governance introduces students to the practices that prevent the abuse of power and promote democratic values, human rights, and the equitable distribution of resources.

I learned this from my law school and public administration-public policy graduate programs/studies, particularly from two of my former professors, Prof. James Scheible, and Prof. James Roth, and under the voice/lecture symposium at the University of Minnesota of former United States Vice President, late Walter Mondale.

They taught me that public service education can instill a sense of commitment toward community and nation-building in students.

It can enlighten them about the role they play in crafting and implementing programs and policies that serve the public interest, especially the marginalized sections of society.

By imparting knowledge of public service, universities can groom graduates who prioritize the needs of the public over personal gain.

Critical thinking remains one of the most invaluable assets in any domain.

By challenging students to analyze, reflect upon, and evaluate scenarios from multiple perspectives, they can become adept at solving complex problems.

Critical thinkers would thereby enter their professional lives with the ability to discern facts from misinformation, an especially crucial skill in this era of “fake news” and propaganda.

This intellectual rigor will be essential for future leaders facing multifaceted societal challenges.

Innovation and creativity are synonymous with advancement.

Universities must create environments that celebrate out-of-the-box thinking and novel solutions.

Harnessing creativity leads to technological advancements, artistic expressions, and societal solutions that can break the fetters of traditional thinking and help leapfrog development challenges, especially in resource-limited settings.

The danger of corruption the bane of many societies, but particularly destructive in the developing world, must be emphasized within university curricula.

A deep-rooted understanding of the pernicious effects of corruption is vital.

It strips nations of their wealth, erodes public trust, and exacerbates inequality.

By educating students on the importance of integrity and the devastating impacts of corrupt practices, universities can produce graduates who stand firm against such misdeeds, thus nurturing an environment where justice and fairness can flourish

In essence, embedding administrative skills, ethics, customer service, leadership, entrepreneurship, good governance, public service, critical thinking, innovation, creativity, and the recognition of corruption’s dangers is a multifaceted approach to molding future leaders.

These components are symbiotic, each reinforcing the other to create a holistic education that empowers students to become ethical, innovative, and effective leaders.

By ingraining these values and skills into curricula, universities in third-world countries can ensure that their graduates not only thrive in their respective fields but also contribute to the creation of a corruption-free, just, and prosperous society.

Only through such comprehensive educational reforms can the true potential of third-world countries be unleashed, lighting the path for enlightened governance and social upliftment that echoes across generations.