By: Contributing Writer
Cotton Tree, Margibi County – It was a moment of celebration, reflection, and appreciation when students of Margibi University gowned and honored former Margibi County District #2 Representative, Hon. Ballah G. Zayzay, for his immense contributions to the establishment and development of the Harbel Community College now proudly known as Margibi University.
The colorful ceremony, held at Zayzay’s residence in Cotton Tree, coincided with his birth anniversary, creating a double celebration that united students, administrators, and community members in joy and gratitude.
Speaking during the event, the Student Council Vice President, Edward Entsuah, described the honor as a well-deserved recognition of former Zayzay’s tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to higher education in Margibi County. He noted that the former lawmaker’s leadership and foresight paved the way for the creation of an institution that now serves as a beacon of learning for thousands of young Liberians mostly Margibians
“Hon. Zayzay’s vision and advocacy made it possible for young people in Margibi to have access to quality tertiary education right here at home,” Entsuah said. “His push to sponsor the bill that established Harbel Community College has forever changed the educational landscape of our county.”
Margibi County was once known for its low percentage of university graduates and limited access to higher education. However, through Zayzay’s legislative advocacy, a bill was introduced and passed into law in 2012, establishing Harbel Community College as a public institution of higher learning. The Act was signed by former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as part of the government’s decentralization plan for higher education.
At its inception, Harbel College became the fourth public tertiary institution in Liberia—after Nimba, Grand Bassa, and Sinoe Community Colleges. Academic activities officially began in 2014 under the leadership of Prof. Dwede D. Hoto, with classes initially held at a Firestone facility while the main campus was under construction. A year later, the College appointed its first President, Dr. Syrulwa Somah, who expanded academic programs and introduced degree and certificate courses in Agriculture, Engineering, and Education.
In April 2021, the College held its first graduation, conferring degrees on 26 pioneering graduates and launching the J. Emmanuel Nuquay School of Business Administration. The milestone marked a new chapter of growth, positioning the institution as a center of academic excellence.
Further transformation came in 2023 under former President George M. Weah, who appointed Dr. Joseph D. S. Boldar as Acting President. During his leadership, several new colleges were added, including Liberal Arts, Development Studies, and Health Sciences. It was during this time that a bill to transition Harbel College into a full-fledged university was introduced by Representative Ivar K. Jones ~ Zayzay’s successor in District #2.
That vision was realized on August 9, 2024, when President Joseph N. Boakai signed into law the Act repealing the Harbel College Charter and establishing Margibi University. The university now boasts six founding colleges: College of Agriculture and Forestry, College of Education, College of Business and Public Administration, College of Health Sciences, College of Engineering and Geosciences, College of Natural Sciences
Following this transformation, President Boakai appointed Dr. Joseph T. Isaac as the first President of Margibi University on September 29, 2024, ushering in a new era for higher learning in the county.
In his emotional response to the honor, former Representative Ballah Zayzay expressed heartfelt appreciation to the students and pledged his unending support to the university’s growth and sustainability.
“Till I die, I will continue to support Margibi University,” Zayzay vowed, his voice filled with passion. “Education is the key to our country’s development, and I am proud to have played a role in this great achievement.”
The event ended with cheers, and a renewed sense of purpose among students and administrators—many of whom now see Zayzay not just as a former lawmaker, but as a founding father of higher education in Margibi County.
Indeed, the story of Margibi University cannot be told without the name Ballah G. Zayzay — a man whose vision turned a dream into a lasting legacy.
