President Joseph Nyumah Boakai has announced a $13.1 million renovation project for the University of Liberia (UL) to revitalize the institution’s four campuses to create a more conducive learning environment. Speaking on January 10, 2025, at the Academic Investiture ceremony for UL’s sixteenth president, Dr. Layli Maparyan, President Boakai confirmed that comprehensive assessment reports had been submitted to his office, and renovation efforts would commence in the coming weeks.
“The Ministry has submitted its report to me, and I will follow up shortly to initiate the renovation of the campuses,” Boakai stated during the ceremony held at UL’s Fendell Campus.
According to estimates from the Ministry of Public Works, the renovation budget includes $3.9 million for campus infrastructure and $9.2 million for constructing access roads. President Boakai pledged to ensure that the process addresses UL’s pressing challenges, including faculty salary arrears.
“I have instructed the Minister of Finance to address the outstanding arrears of faculty members,” the President affirmed, reiterating his administration’s commitment to resolving long-standing issues at the state-run institution.
Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh, the outgoing acting President of UL, had earlier disclosed that the total cost for renovations and improvements was pegged at $13,179,412. This significant investment, Boakai emphasized, reflects his administration’s dedication to restoring the University as a leading center for academic excellence in Africa.
During the ceremony, President Boakai congratulated Dr. Maparyan on her appointment, describing her leadership as a pivotal opportunity for growth and innovation at the institution. “I wish Dr. Maparyan Godspeed as she commences her journey as the University President and pledge my Government’s full and unflinching support in helping her succeed in taking the University to the highest level for the benefit of all Liberian youths,” Boakai remarked.
He called on faculty, staff, students, alums, and national and international partners to unite to support the new President and ensure that UL regains its position as a prominent institution of higher learning.
As a symbolic gesture of progress, Boakai joined UL’s Board of Trustees in unveiling two new buses for the University’s Straz-Sinje Campus in Grand Cape Mount County. He also encouraged faculty and staff to resume their duties promptly for the upcoming academic year, set to begin on January 13, 2025.
“As the Visitor of the University, I urge all faculty and staff to resume duties on Monday, January 13, 2025, the date identified by the UL Administration for the resumption of classes for the Academic Year 2025,” he emphasized.
In a reflective moment, Boakai expressed gratitude to UL’s Board of Trustees for conferring upon him an honorary Doctor of Laws degree, recognizing his contributions to national development. He called for collective efforts to advance the University’s mission and vision.
Founded in 1862 as Liberia College, the University of Liberia has evolved into a vital institution for the nation’s development despite challenges ranging from resource shortages to the devastation of civil wars. UL remains committed to teaching, research, and community service while striving to prepare professionals who can contribute to the country’s sustainable development goals.
