By Grace Q. Bryant
The Acting president of the University of Liberia, Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh, has provided significant updates on the state of the university, outlining ongoing initiatives and upcoming projects designed to enhance the institution’s operations, infrastructure, and academic offerings.
Dr. Conteh, who spoke yesterday at the University of Liberia main Campus, disclosed that the University of Liberia will undergo a comprehensive audit, with the process set to begin in early September and expected to conclude by the end of the month.
“This audit will be conducted in collaboration with Auditor General P. Garswa Jackson and his team, aiming to ensure transparency and accountability in the university’s financial management,” He revealed.
He stressed that the audit process will begin from past presidents, including Ophelia Weeks up to present.
UL’s president Conteh further disclosed that the Search Committee, chaired by Sister Mary Laurene Browne, has concluded its application phase for the university’s next president.
He added that the committee is in the final stages of its work and will soon present a shortlist of candidates to the Board of Trustees. “These names will then be forwarded to the Visitor of the University, President Joseph Boakai, for final selection,”
However, the UL Acting President disclosed further that the university is actively preparing for its 104th Commencement Convocation, scheduled to take place at the Fendell Campus between September 9 and 21, 2024.
He explained that the Joint Convocation is set for September 20, where the Board of Trustees will invite President Boakai to preside over the event and receive an honorary degree. Additionally, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, former Senator and Governor of Imo State, Nigeria, will serve as the Commencement Speaker. Governor Okorocha Rochas’ Foundation has been instrumental in providing educational opportunities for orphans and underprivileged children across Africa, including Liberia.
Acting president Conteh stressed that the university is working closely with the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, the Ministry of State, and the Ministry of Public Works to ensure the efficient utilization of its remaining $37 million budget for the fiscal year.
“Salaries for faculty and staff are current, and the payroll for adjunct faculty has been regularized. In addition, a comprehensive assessment of the Capitol Hill and Fendell campuses is underway to address essential facility needs before the start of the next academic year,” he added.
Dr. Conteh emphasized the university’s focus on improving digital resources and internet connectivity across all campuses. Negotiations with private Liberian firms are ongoing to ensure reliable internet access before classes resume.
He disclosed that UL has also renewed partnerships with universities in Africa, India, Nigeria, and the United States to enhance capacity-building and training programs for faculty. A notable collaboration includes the launch of an Online Master’s program (OMS) in computer science and engineering in partnership with Georgia Tech University, a project born out of President Boakai’s recent visit to the United States.
Dr. Conteh added that in partnership with the Nigerian Technical Assistance Corps (TAC), UL is set to recruit 35 professors for various graduate programs beginning September 2024.
The university, in collaboration with UNDP, iCampus, and Orange, has launched the University Innovation Pod (UniPod) at the Lakeview campus. This initiative aims to bolster students’ entrepreneurial skills, with state-of-the-art equipment already installed at the Fendall Campus.
He disclosed that UL will soon launch doctoral programs in biomedical sciences and education. The university is seeking accreditation for these programs from the Association of African Universities and other international bodies.
Dr. Conteh also addressed student concerns, particularly regarding campus violence and the state of physical facilities. A bus procurement process for the Fendall campus is underway, and efforts are being made to improve the learning environment. The university is also organizing a counseling retreat at its Fendall Campus to address recent incidents of violence and to promote a more harmonious campus atmosphere.
