By Matalay Kollie
GBOVEH HILL, GBARNGA – Bong County University has installed a new 100KVA Perkins diesel generator to strengthen electricity supply on its campus, a move authorities say will significantly improve academic and administrative operations.
Speaking during the installation, the university’s Vice President for Administration, James K. Saybay, said the decision to procure the generator was driven by persistent power interruptions that disrupted activities and risked damaging equipment.
“We thought to acquire this new generator because even a 20-minute outage in this building can be embarrassing,” Saybay noted. “This is meant to support our students and ensure continuity in our operations.”
He disclosed that the generator, valued at approximately US$27,000, was procured through budgetary support from the Government of Liberia. According to him, the university identified the need, submitted a request, and received approval as part of ongoing government assistance to the institution.
“The government has helped us acquire this. Each year, we present our needs through the budget, and they support us,” he explained.
Saybay emphasized that the new generator is critical to sustaining improvements already made on campus, particularly in enhancing the learning environment. He revealed that when the current administration took over, only three air conditioners were functional in the main building. That number has now increased to over 35.
He said unreliable electricity had previously led to damage of sensitive equipment in offices such as the registrar’s unit and IT Lab, where cooling systems are essential.
“With more than 35 functional air conditioners now, operating without a reliable generator is difficult. This machine will ensure our activities run smoothly,” Saybay added.
The administrator assured students that the generator would help eliminate disruptions during early morning classes, especially those held as early as 7:00 a.m., which previously experienced frequent power outages.
The university’s Administrative Vice President revealed that it is also exploring a diversified energy approach, combining public electricity supply, Jungle Energy Power, generator backup, and renewable energy sources, Solar Farm. Saybay disclosed plans to eventually establish a solar farm, complementing recently installed solar lighting systems around the campus.
He noted that while fuel consumption remains high due to the size of the facility and the number of appliances in use, the government continues to provide fuel support to help keep operations running.
Looking ahead, Saybay said the university aims to expand academically by introducing additional colleges and possibly launching graduate programs in the coming years. He stressed the importance of creating a secure and conducive learning environment for students drawn from across Liberia.
At the close of the interview, Saybay also addressed public reactions to a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between the university and the Sumo Moye Family.
He clarified that the arrangement involves a donation of buildings previously used for a private college– Sumo Moye Memorial Technical College, rather than a merger as widely described.
“The family donated several buildings to the people of Bong County and Liberia at large. While opinions may differ, many see this as a significant opportunity for the university,” he said.
Saybay added that despite mixed reactions, the administration remains focused on leveraging the partnership to expand infrastructure and improve access to higher education.
