‘UL Will Not Be Demand-Driven’ -Prexy Maparyan Sets Record Straight

By Grace Q. Bryant

The president of the University of Liberia(UL), Layli Maparyan, has made it clear that under her leadership, the university will not function as a demand-driven environment but rather as a structured institution.

Speaking in response to student protests demanding the reopening of the add-and-drop registration process, Dr. Maparyan emphasized that students must adhere to the university’s established guidelines and deadlines.

“There has been enough time for registration. It started in October and was extended by two additional weeks during the semester,” she stated firmly.

“That being said, I understand that there are still some issues being handled manually. If the manual system isn’t working, we will rectify it, but I do not want to reopen add and drop,” she said.

She stressed the importance of maintaining academic standards. We cannot change policies every time a protest occurs.

“This is not a demand-driven environment; it is a structured one,” she said.

On March 4, the Vanguard Students Unification Party (SUP) staged a protest that disrupted normal academic activities on both the Fendell and Main Campuses.

The protesting students demanded urgent intervention from the administration to resolve ongoing issues related to course registration and the shortage of classroom space.

The demonstration escalated on March 5, 2025, with multiple student political parties joining in, blocking roads and disrupting campus operations.

Addressing these concerns, Maparyan emphasized that universities operate based on rules and consistency.

“If we constantly change our rules, our reputation as a university will be at risk. I am here to elevate the reputation of this institution. When we set standards and follow them, our credibility grows. But if we keep changing things every time, people won’t take us seriously. Graduates from this institution want their degrees to hold value,” she explained.

However, she acknowledged the challenges some students face, particularly freshmen and those dealing with legitimate concerns.

“I deeply sympathize with students who have genuine difficulties, especially freshmen who registered late or others with serious concerns. I recognize that because our system is not yet fully digitized, some processes are difficult. That’s why digitization will be a key component of our strategic plan. Universities worldwide use digital systems to manage these processes efficiently. We will get there, but until then, we must be patient and work within our current structure,” she expressed.

Dr. Maparyan condemned the violent aspects of the protests, stating that while peaceful demonstrations are a form of expression, riots and destruction will not be tolerated.

She explained, “When students have ideas and want to share their concerns, that’s one form of protest. But when demonstrations turn into throwing rocks and destruction, that is no longer a protest it becomes a riot. Riots are unacceptable on our campus.”

 She urged students to seek dialogue instead of resorting to disruption.

 ”The best way to address concerns is to come talk to me or send a formal request in writing-not to throw rocks outside. Engagement should be through peaceful conversation and structured discussions. This news conference serves as a step toward fostering dialogue with all groups within the university. And as I said in my inauguration address-I see you. But please, see me too,” she noted.