By Laurina B. Lormia
President Joseph Boakai has warmly welcomed Dr. Layli Maparyan as the newly appointed President of the University of Liberia (UL) and commended the Board of Trustees for their commitment and diligent efforts throughout the selection process.
On Thursday, January 9, President Boakai reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing education in Liberia and expressed confidence in the newly appointed President of the University of Liberia.
Speaking during the meeting, President Boakai expressed hope that her leadership would propel the University toward transformative growth, ensuring its alignment with national priorities, particularly in education and workforce development as outlined in the Government’s ARREST Agenda.
According to President Boakai, Liberia is familiar with Dr. Maparyan, and his government is excited to have her at the helm of this historic institution. Stating that her appointment marks a new chapter for the University of Liberia.
He stated that the Board’s work was thorough and expressed appreciation for the diligence involved in reaching this point.
He also commended the University of Liberia’s Board of Trustees for their dedication and rigorous efforts throughout the selection process, noting that their unanimous approval of Dr. Maparyan reflects their commitment to excellence in leadership.
However, UL’s outgoing president, Al-Hassan Conteh, praised the integrity of the selection process, noting that it adhered to international standards and resulted in the selection of a highly qualified leader.
He expressed confidence that Dr. Maparyan would continue the university’s legacy of academic excellence and play a key role in its ongoing development.
Dr. Conteh also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the university administration, faculty, and students in achieving the institution’s goals and advancing Liberia’s educational landscape.
The Board of Trustees Chairman, Grand Kru County Senator Numene Bartekwa, presented Dr. Maparyan to the President, expressing his confidence in her ability to address the longstanding challenges facing the University.
Dr. Maparyan thanked her hosts for the warm welcome and vowed to wholeheartedly contribute to the University’s development. She recalled her first trip to Liberia in 2009, noting that her new position marked the realization of a long-held dream to serve the country.
“While Liberia has always felt like a second home, it is now my primary home,” she remarked, emphasizing both her personal and professional dedication to advancing the nation.
Meanwhile, the special convocation to officially induct Dr. Maparyan as President of the University of Liberia takes place today, January 10, 2025, at the Fendell Campus in Louisiana, lower Montserrado County.
The University is expected to resume normal operations on Monday, January 13, 2025.
