UMU and Carbon Markets Authority Celebrate World Oceans Day 2026

Monrovia, Liberia – June 11, 2026 – The United Methodist University (UMU), in collaboration with the Carbon Markets Authority (CMA), celebrated World Oceans Day 2026 on June 8, 2026, at the UMU Main Campus in Monrovia.

 The program brought together university leadership, students, faculty, climate actors, and stakeholders to discuss the significance of Liberia’s ocean and coastal resources to livelihoods, food security, climate resilience, biodiversity, and national development.

 During special remarks, the President of UMU, Cllr. Medina Wesseh reaffirmed the University’s commitment to environmental education, research, and service to national development. She noted that universities play a critical role in equipping young Liberians with the knowledge and values needed to protect the environment and contribute to sustainable development.

 “World Oceans Day reminds us that the ocean is central to our lives, economy, climate, and future,” Cllr. Wesseh said. “UMU remains committed to building the capacity of students and communities to better understand and protect Liberia’s natural resources.”

 Speaking on behalf of the Carbon Markets Authority, Madam Jeanine Cooper, Chief Executive Officer and Presidential Envoy on Climate Actions, emphasized the importance of Liberia’s blue economy within the country’s broader climate and development agenda. She noted that the CMA, through its Blue Economy Secretariat, is committed to supporting coordinated action on ocean governance, climate finance, blue carbon, conservation, and sustainable livelihoods.

 “Liberia’s ocean space presents a major opportunity for climate action, inclusive growth, and responsible investment,” Madam Cooper said. “Through partnership, science, and strong governance, we can protect our marine and coastal ecosystems while creating sustainable opportunities for our people.”

 The keynote address was delivered by Sheck Sherif, Dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences at UMU and representative of the Blue Economy Secretariat of the CMA. He called for a stronger national commitment to ocean science, fisheries management, coastal protection, pollution control, blue carbon development, and youth engagement.

 “Our ocean is both a national asset and a national responsibility,” Mr. Sherif said. “World Oceans Day should remind us that protecting Liberia’s marine and coastal resources is essential to our economy, our communities, and future generations.”

 The event emphasized the growing collaboration between UMU and the CMA in advancing environmental awareness, blue economy education, climate action, and science-policy engagement in Liberia.

 Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with government, development partners, civil society, academia, coastal communities, and the private sector to support the sustainable development of Liberia’s blue economy.