Executive Mansion, Monrovia, Liberia - President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., today, June 20, 2024, held a crucial meeting with the Board of Trustees of the University of Liberia at his Executive Mansion office.

The meeting featured the presentation of a list of members of the Search Committee which has been constituted to vet candidates and recommend top academics to be appointed by the President (the Visitor to the University) to head the University. The 11-member Search Committee is chaired by Archbishop Reverend Dr. Gabriel Blamo Jubwe and co-chaired by Ambassador Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh who once served as President of the University.

In updating the President on developments at the University, Board of Trustees Chairman, Grand Kru County Senator Numene T.H. Bartekwa, recounted the various meetings and engagements the Board has undertaken in the wake of the unfolding tension at the Institution.  He cited meetings with the Faculty and Staff Associations and other constituent groups at the University in efforts to ensure the resumption of classes.

Responding, President Boakai recalled several moves he has made, from the days he was Vice President, in efforts to source educational materials, opportunities, and finances for the upkeep and running of the University, all of which, he lamented, fell through the cracks owing to failure to follow-up.

Assuring the Board members of his unwavering support and cooperation, President Boakai affirmed his firm commitment to working with them in fostering a seamless operation and advancement of the University.

He emphasized the importance of fostering a harmonious relationship between his Government and educational institutions in an effort to nurturing an environment conducive for learning, innovation, and growth.  He underscored his shared vision for revitalizing the educational landscape in Liberia so as to empower the next generation of leaders, scholars, and change makers.

Concluding, the Liberian Leader informed the Board that he is to shortly meet with other key actors and stakeholders of the University to push the search for calm, harmony and sustained peace on the University campuses.  He named the University Faculty and Staff Associations as the first groups of actors he will meet shortly.