By Matalay Kollie
A major milestone in higher education in Bong County has been reached, as Senator Prince Moye officially waived US$700,000 Property to the Bong County University (BCU).
The agreement, signed by the Moye family, the BCU administration, and county authorities, marks a significant transition aimed at strengthening tertiary education in central Liberia. Although details of the merger document have not yet been made public, officials confirmed that it has been submitted to the 9th Judicial Circuit Court in Gbarnga for formal processing. Full disclosure is expected through the media by Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
Speaking at the second and final graduation ceremony of Sumo-Moye Memorial Technical College (SMMTC), Senator Moye emphasized the importance of building sustainable educational institutions beyond political motivations.
He noted that many schools established for political purposes often struggle with management and accreditation, particularly in specialized fields such as nursing, where certification standards are “very, very rigorous.” He praised the institution for meeting the requirements set by the National Commission on Higher Education, describing SMMTC as comparable to some of Liberia’s leading institutions.
Moye highlighted his longstanding commitment not only to students but also to faculty development. He recounted sponsoring advanced degrees for administrators, including master’s programs and ongoing doctoral studies, as part of efforts to strengthen institutional leadership.
“We have developed not only the students but also those who manage the affairs of our schools,” he said. “We push them to higher heights.”
Announcing the formal handover, Moye assured students that no one would be disadvantaged by the transition. He pledged financial support for students who may need to transfer to other universities if BCU is unable to immediately absorb them due to capacity constraints.
“Today, we are putting it on paper to turn over the facility of Sumo-Moye Memorial Technical College to Bong County University,” he declared, adding that a memorandum of understanding would be signed and shared with the press.
In his acceptance remarks, BCU President Dr. Alfredson Tiakerwayeh Sr. expressed profound gratitude to Senator Moye and his family, describing the donation as a transformative gift to the people of Bong County.
He recalled the university’s early struggles to establish itself as a credible institution capable of delivering quality education and skills training. According to him, the acquisition of SMMTC’s facilities represents a critical step toward expanding access and improving academic delivery.
“We come to express appreciation for this donation to the people of Bong County, to be used by Bong County University,” Tiakerwayeh said.
Using a parable, the BCU president emphasized the importance of recognizing and utilizing opportunities. He likened the university’s journey to that of a seeker of riches who fails to recognize wealth along his path, underscoring the need for awareness and strategic action in development.
On behalf of the university and its stakeholders, he formally accepted the gift, offering prayers and well-wishes for Senator Moye and his family.
“This is a gift for the education of our people and the country at large,” he added. “We wholeheartedly receive it.”
The merger is widely seen as a bold step toward consolidating resources and improving higher education infrastructure in Bong County. Local authorities and residents have welcomed the move, expressing optimism about its long-term impact.
Once finalized by the court, the integration of SMMTC into Bong County University is expected to enhance academic programmes, expand enrollment capacity, and strengthen institutional governance in the region.
