The chance of students resuming classes at the University of Liberia (UL) is said to be far from reality as several aggrieved members of the University of Liberia Faculty Association (ULFA) have once again threatened to boycott classes over government failure to holistically address their many demands.
Gathered in the UL Administrative Complex for their crucial general assembly, the over 400 faculty members
The atmosphere was charged with expressions of grievances as over 400 faculty members mentioned attributed their plans decision to their unpaid salaries and the deteriorating working conditions for staff, which have drastically affected learning environment of the University.
ULFA’s president Edna G. Johnny underscored the association’s commitment to advocating for the general welfare of faculty and staff.
She highlighted significant grievances stemming from an unresolved Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) established in October 2021, which included a pending 40% salary increment and ongoing issues identified in a resolution from June 14, 2024.
Key issues presented included delays in salary disbursements, a lack of adequate office accommodation, and disparities in staff salaries as the assembly also addressed the absence of essential working tools and transportation for staff at remote locations like Sinje.
Dr. Johnny also called for immediate action from the government, particularly regarding the appointment of a new university president, thus reiterating the faculty stance that classes would not resume until the administration’s commitments were met, including resolving the outstanding financial issues.
She emphasized the necessity for the newly appointed president, expected to be selected based on recommendations from a recently completed vetting process, to tackle the myriad of challenges facing the institution as well as demanded that the new leadership expedite the resolution of salary arrears, ensure timely promotions, and provide the promised transportation for faculty working in distant areas.
“The current situation is untenable. We cannot continue under these conditions. Our demands are clear and we expect swift action from the government,” she intoned.
Meanwhile, the assembly concluded with a resolution outlining specific actions required to address these grievances, including a comprehensive audit of university finances and a review of faculty credentials.
As the faculty awaits the government’s response and the appointment of new leadership, the uncertainty looms large over the academic community, raising questions about the future of education at the University of Liberia.
Faculty members are hopeful that their voices will be heard, and that the promises made by President Joseph Boakai will be fulfilled in a timely manner.
The next steps remain unclear as the faculty stands firm in its resolve, prepared to escalate their efforts if necessary to ensure their demands are met.
The University of Liberia Faculty Association (ULFA) convened its General Assembly, drawing over 400 faculty members to the Administrative Complex Theater In a pivotal gathering on November 1, 2024 under the leadership of Edna G. Johnny, to advocating for the welfare of its members amidst ongoing challenges in the university system.
During the assembly, Dr. Johnny presented a comprehensive report addressing the unresolved issues from a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) established on October 1, 2021, between the Government of Liberia and the faculty.
Key topics included the remaining 40% salary increment promised by the previous administration, along with concerns raised in a resolution from June 14, 2024.
These issues highlighted the urgent need for a conducive working environment, adequate transportation for faculty at remote campuses, retroactive salary payments, and accountability within the university.
The assembly also welcomed the intervention of President Joseph Boakai, who had appointed an interim leadership with a three-month mandate to facilitate the recruitment of a new university president.
However, ULFA members expressed their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs, demanding that all issues be addressed before they resume classes or hold another assembly.
Resolutions passed during the assembly included a call for President Boakai to fulfill his promise by appointing a new president per the recommendations of the Presidential Search Committee, emphasizing that the acting president’s mandate has expired.
A stipulation that faculty will not return to the classroom until a new president is appointed, and an urgent plea for the resolution of outstanding issues, including the settlement of part-time faculty salaries, promotion implementation, and improvements to campus facilities.
As the assembly concluded, ULFA members made it clear that their commitment to enhancing the educational environment at the University of Liberia hinges on timely governmental action.
The fate of the university’s operations now rests on the swift resolution of these pressing demands, underscoring the critical role faculty play in shaping the future of higher education in Liberia.
