By S. ODELL SWEN, Monrovia College
Monrovia College and Industrial Training School, Inc. was established in 1922 by the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. Bishop Samson Brooks, the presiding prelate at the time, was instrumental in its birth. Its purpose was and still is to offer post-secondary education solely intended to prepare students for immediate employment.
In 1995, to address the need for post-secondary education, the AME Church in Liberia opted for the establishment of its University. As a result, the church felt that AME University could use the Monrovia College building because there was room for expansion, thereby relocating Monrovia College to a relatively small former apartment building owned by the Church on Clay Street.
The idea of a new home for Monrovia College dates back to 2011, when Bishop David Daniels was the presiding prelate of the 14th Episcopal District. However, when Bishop Earl McCloud was assigned in 2016, the decision for the relocation of Monrovia College kicked up a storm, and Bishop Paul JM Kawimbe, the new Presiding Bishop of the 14th Episcopal District, embraced the project and has taken a keen interest in ensuring that this dream becomes a reality. Monrovia College’s new facility will be a four-floored building, and the total cost of this project is USD 1,020,249. The project will proceed in phases with an estimated completion date of December 2023.
In the face of huge economic challenges in Liberia, Monrovia College is now on a venture with a grander vision that will create a learning environment that promotes post-secondary-educational development with a focus on enabling a favorable environment for holistic student development and specialized vocational programs for navigating life and making meaningful contributions to society.
Monrovia College celebrates 100 years since its establishment in 1922. The Committee is creating a comprehensive plan for the college’s anniversary. Using the theme: “Standing on our Legacy; Embracing the Future,” the Committee put together a series of events to commemorate the same. Events covering this once-in-a-lifetime occasion include a Beauty Pageant, Alumni Homecoming and Sports Tournament, Street Parade, Groundbreaking Ceremony, and Benefit Gala and Awards Night. Climaxing these festivities was the Centennial Salute to Past Presidents of Monrovia College held a the Monrovia City Hall. Those honored were Dr. Louse C. York, Mrs. Pearl Banks Williams, Mr. Jackson Paye Gbamie, and Presiding Elder James O. Jallah. Gracing this auspicious occasion was the Right Reverend Dr. Paul J. M. Kawimbe, the Presiding Prelate of the 14th Episcopal District, and Episcopal Supervisor Dr. Lister M. Kawimbe.
During the event climaxing the centennial celebration of Monrovia College and Industrial Training School, Bishop Kawimbe expressed thanks and appreciation to the guests present. He assured those present of his office’s commitment to ensuring that the dream of constructing a new home for Monrovia College becomes a reality. Moreover, he affirmed the church’s commitment to the educational process for the betterment of the people of Liberia. He further asserted that his office would endeavor to ensure that the new building for Monrovia College would be constructed. He then thanked the alumni and all well-wishers of Monrovia College. He finally stated that we should look forward to the fulfillment and fruition of a dream.
