By Vaye A. Lepolu
Monrovia – The Vanguard Student Unification Party (SUP), a prominent student political movement at the University of Liberia, has issued a stern ultimatum to the university administration, citing growing dissatisfaction with the leadership of University President Dr. Julius Sarwolo Maparyan.
At the core of SUP’s grievances is what they describe as a “deceptive” move by the university to classify the ongoing Vacation School as a full academic semester. The student group claims this decision undermines thousands of students who either did not enroll or were limited to a small number of courses.
“Vacation School was clearly introduced as an optional, limited academic period. To suddenly upgrade it to a second semester is not only misleading but academically unjust,” said Odecious Mulbah, Secretary-General of SUP. “This decision must be reversed immediately.”
SUP has also raised alarm over persistent issues surrounding the add-and-drop process. According to the group, many students remain uncertain about their academic status and the availability of grades due to a lack of communication from university officials.
“We’ve written names, followed the process, but there has been no feedback. Students are stressed and confused, and this level of neglect is unacceptable,” the student body stated.
Another major point of contention is the unexplained suspension and dismissal of several university staff members earlier this year. SUP is calling on Dr. Maparyan to publish the findings of the internal investigation reportedly conducted by a committee headed by Dr. Kula Thomason. The committee’s report, they argue, has been kept under wraps despite its implications for transparency and governance at the university.
“This administration claims to uphold integrity, but fails to release the very documents that justify major decisions,” SUP said in a release. “We demand the immediate publication of that report.” The student group further criticized what it calls “irresponsible hiring practices” under Dr. Maparyan’s leadership, particularly the employment of over 15 new staff members while current university employees face low wages and poor working conditions.
In addition, SUP blasted the administration for ignoring chronic infrastructure problems across the university’s campuses, including the lack of student buses, damaged classroom chairs, unhygienic restrooms, and deteriorating buildings. “These problems are not new, but the administration’s inaction shows a clear disregard for the student body,” said Sylvester Wheeler, Chairman of SUP. “If these concerns are not addressed, SUP will take appropriate measures to defend the rights of students.”
The group has not detailed what specific actions it intends to take, but its warning suggests a potential escalation of student unrest. The University of Liberia administration has yet to respond to the allegations. The statement was issued on July 8, 2025, under the mandate of SUP’s 33rd Politburo and Central Committee.
