Published: January 10, 2025
MONROVIA – The University of Liberia (UL) is poised for a significant transformation under the leadership of Dr. Layli Maparyan, its newly appointed president. Speaking on Thursday, January 9, 2024, after a meeting with President Joseph Boakai at the Executive Mansion, Dr. Maparyan laid out her vision for revitalizing the state-run institution and positioning it as a beacon of academic excellence in Liberia.
“My goal is to bring to the University of Liberia everything I have learned over the last thirty years as an academic administrator,” Dr. Maparyan said. “I am committed to solving challenges many deemed insurmountable and transforming UL into a flagship institution that inspires pride in all Liberians.”
Dr. Maparyan, a distinguished academic, previously served as Executive Director of the Wellesley Centers for Women and Professor of Africana Studies at Wellesley College, USA. Her appointment, approved by UL’s Board of Trustees on December 23, 2024, followed a rigorous search process. However, her selection has sparked controversy, with some critics questioning why a Liberian was not prioritized for the role.
Welcoming Dr. Maparyan, Acting President Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh expressed optimism about her leadership. “Together, we can make this new chapter successful and impactful for the university and the nation,” he said.
Financial Challenges and Strategic Goals
As Dr. Maparyan prepares to assume office officially on January 10, 2025, UL faces daunting financial hurdles. At a press briefing on January 7, Dr. Conteh disclosed that the university requires $42 million to address pressing infrastructure needs, settle arrears, and expand academic programs.
“These funds are essential to renovating classrooms, offices, and bathrooms, clearing unpaid arrears for adjunct faculty, and equipping science and medical laboratories,” Dr. Conteh stated.
he university also plans to introduce new programs in biomedical sciences and an education doctoral degree to diversify its academic offerings. Additionally, UL intends to acquire two 17-seater buses for its Grand Cape Mount campus to ease transportation challenges for students.
Dr. Conteh stressed UL’s critical role in advancing President Boakai’s ARREST Agenda, which emphasizes education as a cornerstone of national development. “These investments are vital to establishing UL as a top-tier institution,” he said.
Debate Over Appointment
Despite her impressive credentials, Dr. Maparyan’s appointment has drawn criticism from some quarters. Prominent Liberian academic Dr. Kimmie Weeks argued that UL’s leadership should reflect Liberian talent. “Leadership positions at the University of Liberia should showcase the caliber of our local academics and inspire students by demonstrating the heights that Liberians can achieve,” Dr. Weeks said, referencing the legacy of Dr. Rocheforte L. Weeks, UL’s first Liberian president.
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