-Following Academic Fraud Investigation
By Vaye Abel Lepolu
Monrovia, Liberia – In a bold move to restore academic integrity and public trust, the University of Liberia (UL) has dismissed eight employees following the conclusion of a four-month investigation into widespread academic fraud, including the high-profile “Dorr Cooper Incident.”
Dr. Dianna E. Maparyan, President of the University of Liberia, made the announcement on Tuesday, stating that the investigation uncovered “coordinated acts of academic fraud” involving multiple university departments, including Public Administration, Enrollment Services, and Information Technology.
“These acts undermine the university’s mission and reputation,” Dr. Maparyan said. “On my watch, academic integrity will prevail, and impunity will not be an option.” Howbeit, the president did not disclose the identities of those dismissed.
In addition to the dismissals, one employee has been suspended until the end of 2025, while two others—initially under scrutiny—will return to work due to lack of evidence implicating them in any wrongdoing.
The university’s response goes beyond individual accountability. Dr. Maparyan outlined a comprehensive reform package aimed at preventing future misconduct and reinforcing transparency:
The ad hoc Special Committee to Investigate Academic Fraud will become a permanent oversight body, now named the Committee to Investigate Academic Fraud (CIAF).
A UL Whistle-blower Platform (ULWP) will be established to allow confidential and anonymous reporting by students, staff, faculty, alumni, and the public.
A complete overhaul of the Office of Enrollment Services (OES) is underway.
Policies regarding academic fraud for both employees and students will be strengthened, alongside awareness campaigns to reinforce institutional ethics.
“The University of Liberia is instituting a zero-tolerance policy for academic fraud,” Dr. Maparyan affirmed. “This is a defining moment for our institution, and we will emerge stronger, more transparent, and more committed to academic excellence.”
The “Dorr Cooper Incident,” a case that ignited widespread concern across the nation, served as the catalyst for this sweeping investigation. While details of the incident remain under wraps, its exposure prompted a deeper probe into systemic vulnerabilities within the university.
Stakeholders across Liberia’s education sector have praised the move, viewing it as a necessary step to protect the value of degrees awarded by the nation’s flagship university.
