The University of Liberia Student Union (ULSU) has highlighted critical issues hindering progress at the University of Liberia, including financial mismanagement, structural inefficiencies, and inadequate government funding.
During a press conference on Monday, January 13, ULSU President Jacqueline Blio Tingban issued a strong critique of the challenges facing the institution and called for urgent reforms.
Tingban accused unnamed individuals within the university’s administration of fostering inefficiency and undermining academic integrity. “The perpetrators of these sinister acts are determined to maintain a broken system that serves their personal interests rather than the mission of education,” she said.
She outlined several pressing concerns, such as credential falsification among lecturers, substandard teaching quality, administrative interference in student governance, and neglected campus infrastructure.
Tingban warned that these issues collectively erode the institution’s capacity to deliver quality education.
A key issue raised by Tingban also was the persistent underfunding of the University of Liberia, which she described as a failure by successive governments to meet their obligations.
She urged President Joseph Boakai to prioritize the university, reminding him that its founding charter mandates adequate financial support.
“It is the Liberian government’s responsibility to fully fund the university, as outlined in its charter,” Tingban stressed
She called for an increase in funding to address systemic shortcomings.
Despite these challenges, ULSU expressed optimism about the arrival of Layli Maparyan, the newly appointed 16th President of the University of Liberia.
Tingban described her appointment as a “new dawn” and voiced confidence in her ability to lead the university toward meaningful progress.
Maparyan, an accomplished academic with an international reputation, assumes leadership at a critical juncture.
ULSU pledged full support for her administration and called for collaboration among stakeholders to improve infrastructure, address resource gaps, and elevate educational standards.
“ULSU stands ready to partner with you in advancing the university’s mission and fostering a culture of excellence,” Tingban affirmed.
The Student Unification Party (SUP), a prominent campus political organization, has also voiced its support for Tingban’s leadership.
The party formally endorsed her administration and announced the recall of its former Standard Bearer, Mary Kerkula, to strengthen ULSU’s agenda.
“Comrade J. Blio B. Tingban is a disciplined and ideological patriot whose dedication to Massecracy is unmatched,” SUP declared, rallying members to support ULSU’s reform efforts.
ULSU has called on students to remain engaged in academic and social activities, emphasizing unity as the foundation for meaningful change.
Tingban expressed hope that Maparyan’s leadership, coupled with continued advocacy, could address the university’s systemic issues.
“The University of Liberia community is optimistic that this administration will usher in progress and transformation,” Tingban stated.
