The Liberian Senate has taken a decisive step toward strengthening the country’s education sector by approving the transformation of Bomi Community College into Western Region University.
This move follows the Senate’s repeal of the 2012 Act that established the community college, paving the way for the institution to serve students from Bomi, Gbarpolu, and Grand Cape Mount counties in western Liberia.
The decision was reached after a thorough review by the Senate’s Joint Committee on Education & Public Administration, Judiciary, Human Rights, Claims & Petitions, and Ways, Means, Finance & Budget. The committee endorsed the bill, titled “An Act to Repeal the 2012 Act Creating the Bomi Community College to Establish the Western Region University.”
Bomi County Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe, who sponsored the bill, stressed the importance of making higher education more accessible to students in the region. He noted that many students are forced to travel long distances to pursue university education, and this initiative seeks to ease that burden.
Speaking to journalists, Senator Snowe disclosed that discussions are already underway with ECOWAS to implement a teacher and student exchange program. He expressed optimism that such collaborations would improve academic standards and promote regional cooperation.
The proposal includes plans for three dormitory facilities, one for each of the three counties the university will serve. Senator Snowe believes this measure will accommodate students and encourage broader enrollment and participation in higher education.
Acknowledging the financial implications of the initiative, he called for a reassessment of the National Budget to secure funding for the university’s establishment. He also cautioned against political interference, warning that any obstruction to the project would deprive many young Liberians of educational opportunities.
Senator Snowe urged members of the House of Representatives to expedite the passage of the bill, arguing that its swift approval would significantly benefit Liberia’s education sector and future generations. He called on the government to fully support the initiative and ensure its implementation.
