The United States Ambassador to Liberia Mark  Toner has praised the cadets of the Liberia Maritime Authority Training Institute (LMTI), calling them “outstanding ambassadors for Liberia” during a recent courtesy visit.
His comments highlighted the institution’s dedication to excellence and discipline, essential traits for success in both life and career.
Ambassador Toner’s visit aimed to comprehend the operations at LMTI, particularly as plans are underway to elevate the institution to offer Bachelor’s degree programs.
“What shines through here is commitment to excellence and discipline,” he said. emphasizing the importance of a well-prepared maritime workforce for Liberia’s future.
During the visit, the Ambassador toured LMTI’s state-of-the-art facilities, observed ongoing classes, and witnessed a military drill conducted by the cadets. This engagement is part of a comprehensive effort to enhance LMTI’s academic offerings and bolster its position as a leader in maritime education.
Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., Commissioner and CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), expressed gratitude for the U.S. government’s continued support. He specifically acknowledged the U.S. Navy’s role in global maritime security and emphasized the importance of joint efforts in addressing challenges like illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
“We hope to continue our collaboration, especially with the Coast Guard and other international partners, to strengthen maritime security and education,” Lighe Sr. stated.
The LMTI Board Chairman, Abraham Avi Zaidenberg, reinforced the institute’s commitment to upholding global maritime standards, noting that LMTI has successfully trained and graduated 72 cadets, many of whom are now serving on international vessels and in offshore industries. The recent graduation of the first batch of Marine Engineer Officers represents a significant milestone for Liberia’s maritime future.
As Liberia’s sole maritime training institution, LMTI is crucial in developing skilled professionals for the global maritime industry. Ambassador Toner’s visit is anticipated to further solidify the partnership between Liberia and the United States, fostering growth in maritime education and workforce development.
This supportive relationship underlines a shared commitment to enhancing Liberia’s maritime capabilities, which is vital for the country’s economic development and security.
