MONROVIA, Liberia, November 27, 2025— The University of Liberia Student Interim Leadership (ULSIL) hosted a vibrant back-to-school jamboree on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at Ocean Drive in Fish Market, Sinkor, uniting students from its four campuses through a series of sporting events and festivities.
University President Layli Maparyan opened the event with a warm welcome, thanking ULSIL for organizing the day. “Fun is an important part of a well-rounded life and a part of a well-rounded university education,” she said. Excited about the friendly competition, she urged students to participate in the day’s events, no matter the results. “May the best team win, but at the same time, sportsmen-like behavior must be grateful for each other,” Maparyan added.
“So play your best, have fun, enjoy, whoever wins, I congratulate you, whoever doesn’t win, you’re still a winner to me because I love everybody,” Maparyan concluded.
The jamboree included lively football and kickball games, drawing cheers from students who came out to rally behind their teams. Each campus fielded its own team, fostering camaraderie amid friendly rivalries. After the matches, participants are set to relax at a beach party, culminating the day’s events.
Jacqueline Blio Tingban, president of ULSIL, echoed the importance of such gatherings, expressing gratitude to the university administration and students for their support.
“It’s a wonderful feeling, and let me start by thanking the University of Liberia administration, specifically the President and the Student Affairs … and I hope that everyone enjoys this day,” said Tingban.
Participants were informed that the winning team would receive a trophy and a certificate, enhancing the competitive spirit. Following the sporting events, a pool party awaits participants, with entry priced at US$10, which covers a drink.
ULSIL emphasized the significance of combining academic and social activities. “These activities bring together students to have fun and refresh their minds. There’s a saying that, work without play makes Jack a dull boy. The students, even though they are academically engaged and performing, at the same time, socially, they have to refresh themselves,” Tingban said.
Leading up to the jamboree, various sponsors contributed tickets to enable students to attend. Among them were Dr. Maparyan, who donated 30 tickets, and Speaker Richard Koon, who contributed 40 tickets. Others made contributions, including Queen Vashe T. Weah.
As the day unfolded, students joined in the celebrations, with many arriving later to enjoy the cheerful atmosphere. By evening, the beach party was poised to be a lively conclusion to a day that celebrated unity, sportsmanship, and the anticipation of the academic year ahead.
