“Student leadership is the first test of a growing leader; lead by example“- A speech delivered by President James Tactician Gbelee Washington at the induction ceremony of the Hill-Top School of the future’s Student Council Government.

Red Hill, Omega community, 
Paynesville City.

 

Distinguished administrators, respected teachers, proud parents and guardians, invited guests, fellow students, and most importantly, the newly inducted leaders of this Students’ Governance Council.

 

Good morning to all.

 

I bring you warm and fraternal greetings from the Liberia National Students Union (LINSU), the supreme coordinating body of students across our beloved Republic. It is both an honor and a responsibility to stand before you today on this important occasion, one that celebrates leadership, service, and hope.

 

Based on the significance of this unique occasion, I have chosen to speak to you on the theme: “Student leadership is the first test of a growing leader; lead by example“

 

Today is not merely a ceremony of induction. Today is a declaration.
A declaration that student leadership is alive.
A declaration that responsibility has been entrusted to young people.
And a declaration that despite the many challenges facing Liberian students, the future of this nation continues to be shaped, right here, in this noble institution; the Hill-top School of the Future, by minds willing to lead and serve.

 

To the newly inducted members of the Students’ Governance Council: congratulations. Your fellow students have placed their trust in you. They did not choose you because you are flawless, but because they believe you are capable, accountable, and committed. In a country where many students struggle with limited learning materials, overcrowded classrooms, unpaid teachers, high tuition, and unequal access to opportunities, leadership must never be taken lightly.

 

Leadership, especially in the Liberian student context, is not about titles or privileges. It is about advocacy. It is about standing up when students are ignored. It is about engaging administration respectfully but firmly when the welfare of students is at stake. Leadership is service, sacrifice, and integrity.

 

As student leaders, you are now the voice of your colleagues, many of whom face daily challenges, from financial hardship and transportation difficulties to limited access to technology and safe learning environments. You are the bridge between students and administration, and the mirror through which others will judge student leadership. Your actions must reflect discipline, respect, and moral courage. Always remember: leadership is not about being above others, but about standing for others.

 

Liberia’s history teaches us hard but necessary lessons. We have seen the devastating cost of bad leadership, division, conflict, and neglect. But we have also seen the power of youth-led movements and student activism in shaping national consciousness. The future of Liberia will not be built only in the Executive Mansion or the Capitol Building; it will be built in classrooms, student councils, debate halls, and school compounds, by students like you who are learning democracy early.

 

You will face challenges. You will be misunderstood. At times, you may be pressured to compromise your values. But in those moments, let honesty guide you, fairness steady you, and the collective interest of students lead you. Listen before you speak. Consult before you decide. And never misuse the authority your peers have entrusted to you.

 

To the students who were not inducted today: your role is equally critical. Democracy does not end at elections. Support your leaders, challenge them constructively, and participate actively in school affairs. A silent student body weakens leadership; an engaged student body strengthens it.

 

To the school administration and our hardworking teachers: we thank you. In a system where educators often work under difficult conditions, your commitment to mentoring student leaders is an investment not just in this school, but in Liberia’s democratic future.

 

On behalf of the Liberia National Students Union, I urge this Students’ Governance Council to see yourselves as part of a national struggle for better education, stronger student representation, and responsible youth leadership. You are not alone. You are part of a generation called to lead differently, to reject corruption, embrace accountability, and prioritize unity over division.

 

In closing, let me leave you with this reminder: leadership is not measured by how loud your voice is, but by how meaningful your impact becomes. Serve with purpose. Lead with courage. And never forget that the decisions you make today will shape the Liberia our generation will inherit tomorrow.

 

Once again, congratulations to the newly inducted leaders. I wish you wisdom, strength, and resilience throughout your tenure.

 

May God bless this school, may God bless Liberian students everywhere, and may God bless the Republic of Liberia.

 

Thank you.