By Grace Q. Bryant
The newly 16th inaugurated president of the University of Liberia (UL), Layli Maparyan, has pledged to secure external funding through international partnerships, grants, and philanthropic connections to meet UL’s financial needs and enhance its infrastructure and programs.
She made this declaration during her inauguration ceremony held on Friday, January 10, at UL’s Fendell Campus in Louisiana, Montserrado County.
Madam Maparyan succeeds Acting President Al-Hassan Conteh after an extensive vetting process conducted by the UL Presidential Search Committee.
Her inauguration was attended by a host of dignitaries, including President Joseph Boakai in his capacity as the Visitor of the University, government officials, faculty members, students, shareholders, and international partners.
In her inaugural address, Madam Maparyan laid out her vision for the university, focusing on resource mobilization, gender equality, and disability inclusion.
President Maparyan stressed the need for immediate fundraising efforts to ensure the university’s growth and sustainability.
“I will begin fundraising immediately, leveraging contacts I already have in the United States and around the world,” she stated.
She furthered that the national subsidy is a good starting point, but addressing both short-term and long-term needs requires funding from diverse sources, including grants, donations, and revenue from services.
“A fully functioning university must have income streams from public and private funders, donors, and other external sources. It’s time to explore these opportunities and secure the resources we need to accomplish our goals.” She noted.
Madam Maparyan reiterated her commitment to achieving gender balance at UL. “Gender equality is one of my core principles. My goal is gender balance, equal power accomplishment, contribution, and safety,”
According to her, while it is difficult to achieve gender balance overnight, starting early and strong will pave the way, adding, “Under my administration, gender balance will be a cornerstone of our policies and actions.”
This calls for “Building on UL’s existing Gender Studies program to promote equity, inclusion, and accessibility, particularly for students with disabilities,” she said.
Madam Maparyan also highlighted her plans to improve disability access and inclusion at UL, aligning with Liberia’s National Disability Policy.
She emphasized that UL must meet the aspirations of students with disabilities. While achieving this requires infrastructure improvements and process changes, these are necessary steps to modernize UL and align it with the global community of higher education institutions. “We will take concrete actions to serve students with disabilities, working closely with them to address their needs,”
The president announced her intention to develop a new four-year strategic plan for UL before the end of the calendar year, with inputs from all stakeholders.
Her administration, she assured , will focus on fostering innovation, modernizing infrastructure, and expanding access to higher education opportunities.
“During my first 100 days, I will share my goals and priorities with the UL community and the public. This strategic plan will guide us in institutional development and ensure UL’s growth aligns with the needs of its students and the nation,” she noted.
Madam Maparyan acknowledged the transformative legacies of previous UL presidents, including Dr. Emmett Dennis, who rehabilitated the Fendell Campus and strengthened international partnerships by welcoming Liberia’s first post-war Fulbright scholars.
She praised Dr. Ophelia Weeks for launching the Gender Studies program and championing STEM disciplines, which attracted new resources to the university.
Additionally, she commended President Julius Nelson for making UL tuition-free for Liberian undergraduates, thus expanding access to education regardless of socioeconomic status.
“It takes all of us to make the University of Liberia great. Not perfect people, but dedicated individuals who deeply care about this institution and are willing to make sacrifices to see it thrive.”
President Maparyan extended heartfelt gratitude to UL’s faculty, staff, students, and alumni for their relentless efforts to uphold the institution despite numerous challenges.
She acknowledged the students for their perseverance amid limited resources and facilities, commending them for their dedication to learning despite obstacles such as lack of books, materials, and internet access.
She also praised the staffers for their behind-the-scenes work in maintaining the university’s operations, noting that they are often unsung heroes whose efforts are indispensable.
She described the alumni as ambassadors of UL, highlighting their role in inspiring others and supporting the institution both materially and in spirit. “There is no UL without you.”
Madam Maparyan also shared her personal connection to Liberia, dating back to her first visit in 2009. She recalled her initial work with UL, where she helped lay the foundation for the Gender Studies program at the request of former President Dr. Emmett Dennis.
Over the years, she has collaborated with Liberian institutions, particularly in advancing gender equality and conservation efforts. “From the moment I set foot in Liberia, I felt a sense of electricity,” she said, describing her deep love and commitment to the country.
The new president outlined key areas she plans to address during her tenure, including, Academic Calendar Regularization, ensuring a predictable academic schedule to support students’ progress and peace of mind and improving campus facilities, including safe and well-maintained bathrooms, to foster a conducive environment for learning and work. “We can solve problems together if we show up and work collectively.”
In closing, she reflected on UL’s motto, “Lux in Tenebris” (“Light in Darkness”), describing it as a call to illuminate the potential within each individual through education.
“Education reveals the hidden gems within us. quoting the Baháí scriptures. “The role of this university is to make those gems visible, so we can contribute our light to the world,” she said.
Madam Maparyan affirmed her commitment to leading the University of Liberia with integrity, inclusivity, and purpose. “It is in this spirit and with this intention that I will lead UL, and I look forward to all that lies ahead,” she concluded.
