-As Governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha Addresses the Class of UL 104
By Vaye Lepolu
The acting leadership of the University of Liberia (UL) is set to undergo a thorough audit, following an initial meeting with the Auditor General of Liberia, Mr. P. Garswa Jackson, and his team. This audit will encompass the financial operations of the university from the administration of Ophella Lewis to that of Prof. Dr. Julius Sarwolo Nelson.
Acting President Al-Hassan Conteh announced that the comprehensive audit will commence in early September and conclude by the end of the month. He emphasized that the audit aims to enhance the university’s development and create a more conducive learning environment for students to achieve their academic goals.
“We believe it is crucial for past administrations to account for their financial management during their tenure at the University of Liberia,” Conteh stated.
In addition to the audit, Conteh highlighted the university’s commitment to implementing essential reforms. This includes assessing digital resources, internet connectivity, and technology-enabled learning tools across the campus. The university is also in negotiations with private Liberian firms to ensure reliable internet access at all campuses before the resumption of classes.
Moreover, the University of Liberia has rekindled partnerships with several institutions across Africa, India, Nigeria, and the United States to enhance capacity-building and training programs for faculty. Notably, an Online Master’s program (OMS) in computer science and engineering has been launched in collaboration with Georgia Tech University, a partnership facilitated by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai during his recent visit to the United States.
Acting President Conteh also announced plans to partner with the Nigerian Technical Assistance Corps (TAC) to recruit approximately 35 professors for various graduate programs set to begin in September 2024. Collaborations with UNDP, iCampus, and Orange have led to the launch of the University Innovation Pod (UniPod) program, which aims to strengthen students’ entrepreneurial skills. The program was recently inaugurated by Vice President Koung on behalf of President Boakai.
The UniPod lab, located at the Riverview Campus in Fendall, is equipped with state-of-the-art technology designed to enhance students’ entrepreneurial capabilities. Additionally, the University of Liberia plans to introduce doctoral programs in biomedical sciences and education, with accreditation processes underway through the Association of African Universities and other relevant institutions in the United States.
Conteh emphasized the importance of assessing faculty and student needs, revealing that the university has initiated the procurement process for a bus to serve the Fendall campus. He expressed a commitment to addressing student concerns and improving the physical infrastructure to foster a conducive learning environment.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, the Ministry of State, and the Ministry of Public Works, the university is undertaking a comprehensive assessment of the Capitol Hill and Fendall campuses. They are working to ensure that the remaining budget of $37 million for the fiscal year is utilized effectively to meet ongoing expenditures.
Conteh also confirmed that salaries for adjunct faculty have been disbursed. The university is currently collaborating with representatives from the University of Liberia Faculty and Staff Association (ULFASA) to regularize the payroll for adjunct faculty and address issues related to salary disparities.
At a recent press conference, Conteh noted that the Ministry of Public Works is assisting with a comprehensive assessment of the university’s four campuses to ensure essential facilities are in place before the next academic year. The administration is actively touring campus facilities to gather firsthand information about their condition.
At the same time, the University of Liberia has invited His Excellency Owelle Rochas Okorocha, former Senator and Governor of Imo State, Nigeria, to serve as the commencement speaker for the UL 104 class. Conteh praised Governor Okorocha as a friend of Liberia, highlighting his Rochas Foundation, which sponsors the primary and secondary education of orphans and underprivileged children across Africa, including Liberia.
Recently, ten Liberian students graduated from the Rochas Foundation College of Africa and are currently interning with various organizations in Abuja, Nigeria, with one student having been admitted to the United States International University in Kenya.