Monrovia, Liberia – Despite facing significant challenges, such as poor teaching standards, inadequate infrastructure, and limited research capabilities, the University of Liberia continues to struggle. In a surprising move, President Joseph Boakai recently announced plans to construct a new dormitory for students at the Regional Maritime University in Accra, Ghana. This declaration was made during his address at the Commencement Ceremony of the Regional Maritime University.
The funding for this project comes from taxpayer money, raising concerns among Liberians as their own university remains closed. “It’s disheartening to see our resources being allocated to projects abroad while our own institutions suffer,” said Sarah Johnson, a student at the University of Liberia. “We lack basic necessities like chairs, and our president is pledging dormitories in another country.”
In contrast, President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia was recently recognized as a commencement speaker at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, UK, where he was awarded an honorary doctorate. During this occasion, he secured 60 scholarships for Zambian students in fields such as renewable energy and business administration. “President Hichilema’s actions demonstrate a clear commitment to improving education for his country’s youth,” said Dr. Michael Brown, an education expert. “It’s a stark contrast to President Boakai’s recent commitments.”
The University of Liberia grapples with numerous issues, including the absence of research labs and the threat of faculty boycotts due to unpaid salaries. Many faculty members lack proper credentials or teaching training, exacerbating the university’s difficulties. Outdated infrastructure poses significant obstacles to teaching and learning experiences, while limited funding constrains research endeavors.
“We’re doing our best with what we have, but it’s not enough,” said Dr. Moses Toe, a senior lecturer at UL. “Our students deserve better facilities and support for their education.”
The Unity Party, which ran its campaign on a pledge to boost Liberia’s educational sector, promised to implement programs for the development and integration of cutting-edge technologies in various areas including education, healthcare, youth empowerment, communication, transportation, energy, environmental conservation, agriculture, food security, and housing. They focused on updating materials to align with market needs and establishing consistent content standards. The Unity Party also vowed to improve post-graduate programs in health sciences and subsidize private tertiary institutions to enhance learning outcomes.
However, President Boakai’s recent priorities have raised concerns given these commitments. “It’s troubling that critical domestic issues remain unresolved while taxpayer funding is being used elsewhere,” said James Kollie, a political analyst. “The government promised to focus on our educational sector, but actions speak louder than words.”
The University of Liberia remains closed, with students and faculty uncertain about when normal academic activities will resume. “We need immediate action to address our pressing needs,” said Maria Cooper, another UL student. “Our education should be the priority, not projects in other countries.”
As the nation watches, the call for President Boakai to redirect his focus and resources to address the domestic educational crisis grows louder. “Our students deserve the best education possible,” said Dr. Edna Johnny, President of the University of Liberia Faculty Association (ULFA). “It’s time to prioritize Liberia’s future and invest in our own institutions.”
The coming months will be crucial as Liberia’s leadership faces mounting pressure to fulfill its promises and prioritize the needs of its own citizens, ensuring that the country’s educational system receives the attention and resources it desperately requires.