Gonet Academy Cohort 12 Makes History as Largest Graduating Batch
-With females making up nearly 60% of the 827 graduates
GonetAcademy’s Cohort 12 on Saturday, September 27, celebrated a historic milestone with the largest graduating batch consisting of 827 graduates, with women making up nearly 60% of the total.
The ceremony, held at the Harvest Intercontinental Cathedral in Congo Town, was a vibrant occasion marking individual and collective achievements in various professional fields, including Project Management, Banking and Finance, Human Resource Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, QuickBooks, Financial Management, Public Relations and Media, Procurement, and ICT, among others.
Mohammed Kerkulah, Founder and Chief Empowerment Officer (CEO), characterized the graduation ceremony as a significant achievement for each graduate and a collective success for the institution, the nation, and the broader vision of inclusive human capital development.
Mr. Kerkulah emphasized Gonet Academy’s commitment to training professionals for the changing global environment and underscored the significance of gender equality in professional growth. He stressed the institution’s vision of equipping young professionals for the demands of a rapidly evolving world
“The global workforce is undergoing rapid transformation, shaped by digitalization, automation, climate change, and global interconnectedness are reshaping the skills needed to thrive in today’s technology-driven economy,” he said. While citing reports from the World Economic Forum and the International Labor Organization, the CEO stressed the urgent need for re-skilling with young people in developing countries like Liberia most at risk of being left behind.
“According to the World Economic Forum, over one billion people will need to be re-skilled by 2030. Gonet Academy is responding to this urgent call,” Mr. Kerkulah said. “Too often, there is a mismatch between what formal education systems provide and what employers demand. If not addressed, this will trap millions of young people in unemployment or low-wage jobs.”
Gender Equality is More Than a Slogan at Gonet Academy
Kerkulah disclosed that since its establishment, the GonetAcademy has provided training to over 5,000 professionals and is continually growing. Investments have been made in ICT labs, internet facilities, and an alumni networking platform. He expressed pride in the 59.7% female graduates in Cohort 12 as a positive stride towards promoting gender equality in professional development.
“This is a huge milestone,” he said. “Gender equality is not just a slogan for us; it is our commitment to inclusive learning.”
CEO Kerkulah disclosed that the academy’s programs combine theory with practice, equipping graduates with both academic credentials and workplace-ready skills.
Prof. Edna G. Johnny, President of the University of Liberia Faculty Association (ULFA), delivered a powerful keynote address at the ceremony. She inspired graduates to embrace courage and make meaningful contributions to Liberia’s development.
Prof. Johnny emphasized the importance of overcoming fear and seizing opportunities to achieve success, drawing from her personal experience. She commended the graduates for their resilience and perseverance, acknowledging the support of families, Gonet Academy, and other supporters in their journey.
“Fear almost robbed me of a breakthrough,” she recalled, sharing how hesitation nearly held her back early in her career. “Do not let fear rob you of your future. Every failed attempt brings you closer to success.”
“Your being here today shows resilience, fortitude, and perseverance,” she told the graduates as she extended gratitude to families, Gonet Academy, and supporters who played roles in helping the students reach this proud moment.
As an advocate for female empowerment, Prof. Johnny applauded the significant representation of women in the graduating class and encouraged them to continue breaking barriers and celebrating their achievements despite societal obstacles.
“Ladies, I especially congratulate you. Yes, we face many challenges as women, but we remain resilient, determined not to be left behind. We are taking ownership of our achievements and building success on our own terms,” she stated.
Prof. Johnny addressed the graduating class, encouraging them to reflect on their aspirations and to confront the fear of failure that can hinder progress. Drawing from her own experience of overcoming self-doubt during a high-stakes research presentation in front of esteemed dignitaries, she emphasized the importance of taking risks and viewing failures as opportunities for growth.
Prof. Johnny emphasized that success often requires stepping out of one’s comfort zone and trying new approaches to achieve one’s goals.
“Fear will hold you down, but if you don’t try, you cannot succeed,” she noted. “Remember, if you want something you’ve never had, you must do something you’ve never done.”
The ULFA president encouraged graduates to put their education to use not just for personal gain but for Liberia’s development, quoting Nelson Mandela: “There is no passion to be found in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.
She encouraged the class to take risks, embrace opportunities, and persevere through life’s challenges. “As you leave here today, never be discouraged. Never hold back. Give everything you have. And when life knocks you down, fall forward so that you can rise again,” she said to loud applause.
Marie Gayflor, a student with a disability (amputee), expressed gratitude to Gonet Academy CEO Mohammed Kerkulah for establishing an inclusive institution. She thanked the CEO and instructional staff for their support, noting that such institutions create a welcoming environment for students with disabilities. Marie further advocated for the consideration of individuals with visual and speech impairments to ensure a truly inclusive educational experience for all community members.
“I want to thank our CEO and our instructional staff for the level of support to students during their studies at the institution,” she said, adding that not many institutions create an environment where a person with disabilities can go and learn, as such, she is proud as a member of the community graduating from his institution.
She further appeals for the institution to consider people with visual and speech impairments so that other members of her community can enjoy similar love from the institution. “On behalf of my community, I ask you to grant acceptance.”
Gonet Academy, A Hub of Professional Development
During his address, CEO Kerkulah highlighted the significant enrollment numbers of Cohort 12 at Gonet Academy, with a diverse range of professionals enrolled in various programs. Notably, 1,054 professionals enrolled in various programs, 830 in certificate courses, 81 in professional diploma programs, and 143 in comprehensive professional programs. The comprehensive program students are expected to graduate with Cohort 13, as their programs run for 6 Months. 58.4% of the cohort’s total enrollment is women, underscoring the academy’s dedication to gender equality and inclusive learning.
Looking ahead, Kerkulah unveiled the academy’s 2025–2027 Strategic Plan, aiming to position Gonet Academy as a premier hub for professional development in Liberia and beyond. Investments have been made in upgrading learning facilities, including high-speed internet and modern equipment.
“More than US$25,000 has been invested in upgrading learning facilities, including high-speed internet, computer labs, and enhanced security systems. Also, 250 additional modern chairs have been purchased to improve sitting, and a digital platform has been developed to expand access for remote learners through digital platforms,” he said.
There is a plan for the launch of an alumni platform and collaborations with educational bodies that would illustrate Gonet Academy’s commitment to supporting graduates and aligning with global best practices.
The CEO encouraged graduates to embrace resilience and innovation, emphasizing their role as the hope of Liberia and the leaders of Africa’s future.
“This is your time. You are the hope of Liberia and the champions of Africa’s future. Go forward with confidence and the determination to make a difference,” he urged.
The graduation ceremony was graced by the presence of various government officials, including key figures from different sectors. They are the Director General of the Agricultural Industrial Training Bureau (AITB), Mr. Abraham Billy, Vice President for Administration of the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL), Mr. Boakai Jaleiba, the Director General of the National Public Health Institute (NPHIL), Dr. Chris D. Nyan, Human Resource Advisor of Mary’s Meals Liberia, Mr. Thomas M. Gbukpa, among others.
