University Graduates should develop critical skill sets in various disciplines, Deputy Minister Brunson Urges

Monrovia, Liberia - The Deputy Minister for Budget and Development Planning, Hon. Tanneh G. Brunson on Wednesday May 31, 2023, urged all Graduates from the College of Business and Public Administrations to always develop critical skill sets in various disciplines.

She made the proposal at the 103rd Commencement Convocation of the University of Liberia when she served as Convocation Speaker.at the occasion held at the University’s Fendell Campus outside Monrovia.

Minister Brunson explains that with these critical skills set, graduates in various disciplines will provide logical reasoning, critical thinking, and develop and enhanced ability to learn and manage people through verbal and written communications in a professional manner at different workplaces.

"When critical skills are set in various disciplines, graduates provide logical reasoning, critical thinking, and the opportunity to learn and manage people through verbal and written communications in a professional manner at different workplaces ‘’ she explains.

She admonished that in our technological world today, it is not only about one’s academic qualifications in terms of degrees, but also more about the skills and innovation that you bring to the table in solving problems or getting the job done.

Therefore, it is imperative for young people everywhere to develop a greater breadth of skills and knowledge and apply them in ways that meet the demands of the evolving social and economic landscape.

She said, memorizing facts as you are probably accustomed to is not as important as you think, but academic skills remain paramount as a significant tool for growth and development. It is no longer sufficient to foster thoughtful, productive and engaged citizens, she further advised.
She added that skills like teamwork, critical thinking, innovation and flexibility are needed to address complex global challenges such as climate change, health epidemics, cyber security and sustainable development.
These cross-functional, multi-disciplinary skills are essential for collaboration with diverse groups to solve problems where there is a new digital economy.

Minister Brunson cautioned the graduates that graduating today will not end when you walk across this stage and exit this campus. Learning is infinite and lifelong.

She encouraged them to continue to keep themselves informed about the world around them to be able to engage and contribute at every level.
She added, “open yourselves to continuous learning especially about things on the global landscape and keep reading.

As a graduate who is prepared to reach out, more reading will enable you to think critically, analyze information objectively and promote a thirst for knowledge.”
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