By Bill W. Cooper
The Liberian Senate yesterday, unanimously and passed an “Act” to repeal the 2012 Act creating the Bomi Community College to establish in lieu the Western Region University, marking a significant step towards improving educational access and quality in the region.
The decision followed a report from the Senate joint committee on Education, Public Administration, Judiciary Claims and Petition and Ways, Means and Finance and Budget recommending the passage of the bill.
However, the passage of the Act comes after years of advocacy from local leaders, educators, and students who have long sought to elevate Bomi Community College to a university status, as it is expected to provide a broader range of academic programs, improve infrastructure, and attract more students from across the region and beyond.
The Bomi Community College (BCC), was established in 2005 and formally enacted in 2012 and has consistently served as the oldest government -owned Community College, successfully graduating students with Associate of Arts (A.A.) degrees in various key disciplines within a two-year time frame.
The new Western Region University is set to offer bachelor’s degrees in fields such as business administration, education, among others, as this expansion of academic offerings is expected to meet the needs of a growing population and contribute to the socio-economic development of the region.
According to the committee’s report, the passage of this bill will enhance access to advance education, contribute to regional development, and align with Liberia’s goals as envisaged by the government’s ARREST agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID).
The also narrated that the Act will further transform the existing Bomi Community College into the Western Region University located in Tubmanburg, Bomi County and Establish a University equipped to grant bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in diverse academic and professional fields.
Those fields of studies expected to be offered are expected to promote economic growth in the Western region by producing a skilled workforce to meet the demands of agriculture, mining, health, and other key sectors, as it will also expand educational access to the underserved population in Western Liberia, including youth and Women.
The committee maintained that the Bomi Community College as transformed to the Western Region University will now be a full-fledged higher education institution that is empowered to offer undergraduate and professional programs in various disciplines.
In response to the passage, Bomi County Senator, Edwin Melvin Snowe expressed his enthusiasm following the Senate’s decision, and said, “Today marks a pivotal moment in the history of education in Bomi County and the western region of Liberia.”
“This Act will not only elevate the status of our community college but will also empower our youth with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed, as counties like Gbarpolu, and Grand Cape Mount Counties are all expected to benefit from this initiative.
Because, these counties are amongst the mineral rich counties in Liberia and has a growing population of approximately 408, 567 inhabitants, majority of whom are young people, and they are the future leaders of this nation,” he noted.
According to him, the establishment of Western Region University will further have significant economic implications for Bomi County and surrounding counties, on grounds that with the influx of students, there will be increased demand for housing, food, and other services, which could lead to job creation and stimulate local businesses.
Snowe added, “Again, this is just the beginning because we envision a university that will not only educate but also uplift our community and contribute to the development of our great nation. Together, we will build a brighter future for Bomi County and Liberia.”