Graduation in Liberia

In October 2018, in collaboration with our colleagues – Drs Benjamin Harris and Babawale Ojediran – our research team initiated a mixed-methods study examining substance use and high-risk behaviors among high school based youth in Monrovia, Liberia. Phase 1 of the study involved local medical students who conducted focus groups with youth to validate a survey with culturally relevant terminology to describe current substance use and high-risk behaviors in Liberia. Phase 2 of the study involved revisions to a survey that was then distributed to 400 students from 8 different high schools to measure the prevalence of substance use and sexual behaviors. The research team is now working on data analysis and look forward to sharing findings, which will inform the development of more effective school-based interventions throughout the country.

Several of the local medical students involved in the study graduated from the University of Liberia, A.M. Dogliotti College of Medicine this past weekend – check out their photos below!

Dr. Ojediran with the CEO of JFK, Dr. Jerry Brown

Dr. Ojediran with the emergency response medical team

President of UL, Dr. Ophelia Weeks with President George Weah

Group photo of some of the graduating medical students