16/05/2025
Progress Report on the U.S. Engagement Trip of Dr. Gbotoe, President of Grand Gedeh University College
It has come to our attention that Mr. Sayon Tweh, a 57-year-old truck driver residing in the United States, has made several unfounded and misleading public remarks regarding the recent engagements of Dr. Gbotoe, President of Grand Gedeh University College. Among his claims was the assertion that the University was not invited to attend the Grand Gedeh Association in the Americas (GGAA) Convention. This has since escalated into personal attacks, which we find unfortunate and deeply unconstructive.
To clarify and correct the record, we are pleased to share some of the tangible outcomes from Dr. Gbotoe’s recent U.S. trip:
1. Commitments from the GGAA Convention
At the GGAA Convention, members unanimously agreed to undertake the construction of a modern sports complex and recreational park for Grand Gedeh University College, with an estimated cost of $250,000. To initiate this effort, attendees made an initial collective contribution of approximately $50,000.
Additionally, GGAA Minnesota pledged $25,000 toward the renovation of the university’s Multi-Purpose Building (auditorium). This initiative was made possible through the efforts of Mr. George Floyd, a dedicated community leader and supporter of education.
2. Institutional Collaborations
During his visit, Dr. Gbotoe engaged with Mr. Karmaty Diahn, a prominent son of Grand Gedeh based in Minneapolis. Together, they began discussions with several academic institutions, including:
Northern Hennepin Community College
Augsburg University
North Central University
Follow-up meetings are scheduled to finalize collaboration agreements.
Moreover, Mr. Mark Garbo of Iowa pledged to donate 45 brand-new computers to support the University’s growing digital infrastructure.
3. Diaspora Engagement and Support
In a deeply moving moment during his speech at the GGAA Convention, Dr. Gbotoe knelt before the Grand Gedeh diaspora, humbly appealing for their support. This gesture struck a powerful emotional chord, prompting several professionals to step forward.
Notably:
Dr. Thelma Brown Kaine committed to helping transform the University’s Nursing Department into one of the best in Liberia.
A Councilman from Upper Darby District, Pennsylvania, also of Grand Gedeh origin, pledged to connect Dr. Gbotoe with West Chester University, Villanova University, and other academic institutions for potential partnerships.
4. Upcoming Engagements and Partnerships
Dr. Gbotoe is scheduled to meet with the President of Delaware State University next week, and will also pay a courtesy visit to the Governor of Delaware, facilitated by Madam Olugee Gray.
A historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will also be signed with La Roche University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, establishing a formal working relationship.
5. Resource Mobilization and Grant Writing
Dr. Stefania Forte, a prolific grant writer from the University of Pennsylvania, has volunteered her expertise to assist the University in preparing competitive grant proposals for academic and infrastructural development.
These significant outcomes demonstrate the remarkable progress made during Dr. Gbotoe’s U.S. visit and the growing confidence in Grand Gedeh University College’s mission. We encourage all well-meaning Grand Gedeans to focus on building together and contributing constructively to the future of education in our beloved county.
