ULIBAAA Calls for Immediate and Sustainable Solutions to Crisis at University of Liberi

ULIBAAA Calls for Immediate and Sustainable Solutions to Crisis at University of Liberia

Monrovia, Liberia –The Board of Directors and Executives of the University of Liberia Alumni Association in the Americas (ULIBAAA) express grave concern over the persistent funding crisis and cycle of violence plaguing the University of Liberia (UL).

This situation not only undermines the nation’s highest institution of learning but also jeopardizes the future of its students and the country as a whole.

For decades, the University of Liberia has endured a pattern of chronic neglect and underfunding by successive governments. This historical underinvestment has created an environment of systemic challenges, including deteriorating infrastructure, inadequate resources for research and teaching, and a failure to provide competitive salaries and benefits for faculty. The recent decision to make undergraduate tuition free, while well-intentioned, has exacerbated these issues without a commensurate increase in government subsidy, placing a heavy burden on the university’s already strained operational budget. This policy, without a sustainable funding model, has contributed to a decline in the quality and delivery of essential services.

Moreso, consistent and stable leadership is essential to the long-term viability of the university. Over the past two years, the University of Liberia has had three different presidents. Such frequency in leadership changes  not only fester academic uncertainties, and undermines public  confidence.  Donor and partnership  nonchalance; thereby,  hindering academic and institutional progress.

ULIBAAA is additionally troubled by the counterintuitive and destructive nature of student-led protests. While we recognize and validate the grievances of the student body, we vehemently condemn the resort to violence and the destruction of property. This culture of violence is at odds with the demands for a better educational environment and only serves to further destabilize the institution. The path to a better university is not paved with destruction, but with intellectual engagement, dialogue, and a commitment to scholarly pursuits.

We must also recognize the critical role of the faculty in this precarious situation. Faculty members are the intellectual and moral backbone of the university. Their tireless efforts, often under dire circumstances, are what keep the institution functioning. However, their welfare and dignity have been consistently ignored, leading to recent boycotts and protests. We call on the Government of Liberia and the University administration to engage in good faith negotiations to address the faculty’s long-standing concerns, including salary arrears and improved benefits. A stable and well-supported faculty is indispensable to maintaining a culture of intellectualism and scholarship.

ULIBAAA calls on all stakeholders—the Government of Liberia, the University administration, the student body, and the alumni—to prioritize the future of the University of Liberia. We urge the government to:

Develop a Sustainable Funding Plan: Provide a substantial and predictable increase in budgetary support for the University of Liberia to address historical underfunding and ensure the proper implementation of the tuition-free policy.

Invest in Infrastructure and Resources: Allocate funds for the rehabilitation of campus facilities, libraries, and laboratories to create a conducive learning environment.

Address Faculty Concerns: Immediately resolve all outstanding issues with the faculty, including the payment of all arrears and the establishment of a fair Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Promote Peaceful Dialogue: Foster a culture of dialogue and non-violent engagement to address grievances, discouraging the destructive cycle of violence.

The University of Liberia is not just an institution; it is a pillar of national development. Its success is a prerequisite for the nation’s progress. We stand ready to partner with all parties to ensure the University of Liberia reclaims its place as a center of intellectual excellence and a beacon of hope for future generations.

About ULIBAAA: The University of Liberia Alumni Association in the Americas (ULIBAAA) is a non-profit organization committed to supporting the University of Liberia through fundraising, advocacy, and strategic partnerships. Our mission is to enhance the university’s academic and social environment and contribute to the development of Liberia.

Fatima Greaves Kwekwe                                       Wilhelmina Wilson

Dr. Fatima Greaves Kwekwe                                 Wilhelmina Wilson

President                                                                    Board Chair

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.