23/06/2026
Future Engineers and Scientists Take Center Stage as Monsignor Stephen Kyne Technical College Graduands Continue Final Project Defenses Ahead of August Convocation
Capitol Hill, Monrovia, Liberia – June 23, 2026 – Academic excellence, innovation, and professional readiness are taking center stage at Monsignor Stephen Kyne Technical College (MSKTC) as more than 105 prospective Bachelor of Science (BSc) graduands continue the defense of their final research projects and theses in preparation for Stella Maris Polytechnic University much-anticipated Commencement Convocation on Friday, August 28, 2026.
The ongoing academic exercise brings together graduating students from the Departments of Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, Electrical Engineering, and Electronics Engineering, who are presenting the outcomes of months of rigorous research, field investigations, technical analysis, and practical problem-solving before a distinguished panel of evaluators.
The defense process is being coordinated by Mr. Washington Tonoopkuwah, Coordinator of the Environmental Science Department, alongside respected panelists Mr. Abayomi Grant and Mr. J. Wolobah Garmi. The panel is tasked with assessing the quality, originality, relevance, technical competence, and practical application of each research project to ensure that graduating students meet the institution’s academic and professional standards.
Since the commencement of the exercise, students have demonstrated remarkable creativity and critical thinking through a wide range of innovative research topics. The presentations have focused on key areas including environmental sustainability, renewable energy solutions, modern construction technologies, electronic systems design, waste management, climate resilience, and community-driven development initiatives.
The projects not only highlight the students’ academic growth but also underscore the commitment of Stella Maris Polytechnic University, through MSKTC, to producing highly skilled professionals capable of developing practical solutions to some of Liberia’s most pressing developmental and technological challenges.
Speaking during the ongoing defense sessions, Mr. Tonoopkuwah commended the students for their dedication and professionalism throughout the research process.
“The project defense process is a critical component of our academic program. It provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, analytical abilities, research competence, and readiness to contribute meaningfully to national development. The quality of presentations we have witnessed thus far reflects the hard work and determination of our students,” he stated.
The final project defense remains one of the most significant academic requirements for graduation, serving as a capstone experience that allows students to showcase the knowledge, technical skills, and professional competencies acquired throughout their years of study. It also reinforces the university’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, research-driven learning, innovation, and industry-relevant education.
As the defenses continue, anticipation is steadily building across the university community for the August 28, 2026 Commencement Convocation, when successful candidates will officially receive their degrees and join the ranks of Liberia’s emerging generation of engineers, environmental scientists, innovators, and development practitioners.
The ongoing project defense exercise stands as a powerful reminder of the transformative role of higher education in shaping the future of the nation and preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions to sustainable development, technological advancement, and societal progress.
With final presentations still underway, Stella Maris Polytechnic University continues to affirm its mission of nurturing excellence, fostering innovation, and producing graduates equipped to lead, innovate, and serve.
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