Dedication of Water Treatment Facility at Cuttington University
The water treatment facility we dedicate today is an excellent example of public-private partnerships changing the course of development. USAID, through the American Schools and Hospitals Abroad Program, is pleased to have been able to contribute to this rehabilitation project. We would like to congratulate the whole Cuttington University family for the hard work you have put in toward the project.
This water treatment facility is one of many successful projects at Cuttington USAID has financed. Others include assistance for the construction of the Science College and the water tower, and the recent rehabilitation of the electrical system. The American Schools and Hospitals Abroad Program, however, is a unique in that it partners with U.S.-based non-profit organizations to assist schools, libraries, and medical centers they sponsor in developing countries. Since 1957, the American Schools and Hospitals Abroad Program has awarded approximately $68 million to projects in Africa. Cuttington is the only institution in Liberia to have ever received such a grant. We are proud that Bishop Donovan and the Friends of Cuttington, an American NGO, and have sponsored Cuttington University and contributed their time and energy to this goal.
The clean water that comes out of this facility is important, but not nearly as important as the people who will drink it. What the American people and the Friends of Cuttington are really supporting here is the future of Liberia, as the students and this University are proof that the best is yet to come. Liberia needs young people who are well educated and willing to work hard to help rebuild their country. We believe Cuttington students are those types of people and the best way you students can show your gratitude for this project is to do just that. Good luck to everyone and make the best use of your clean water.