Monrovia — Newly elected President of the University of Liberia Faculty Association (ULFA), Alhaji S. M. Dukuly, has vowed to prioritize unity, faculty welfare, and institutional reform as he assumes leadership of the association.
Delivering his acceptance speech following his election, Dukuly described his victory as a collective mandate for change, emphasizing that it belongs not to him alone but to all faculty members committed to strengthening the association.
“This victory is not mine alone. It belongs to every faculty member who believes that ULFA can be stronger, fairer, and more effective,” Dukuly declared.
Call for Unity After Competitive Election
In a conciliatory tone, Dukuly extended an olive branch to his main rival, George F. Sorbor, and members of the Integrity Team, praising their role in fostering a competitive and meaningful democratic process.
“This election is over. The time for division has passed. The time for unity has come,” he said, urging all factions to work together in advancing the interests of faculty members.
He stressed that leadership must transcend political lines within the association, calling for collaboration among all stakeholders to build a stronger ULFA.
Focus on Faculty Welfare and Accountability
Dukuly acknowledged persistent challenges facing faculty members, including concerns over salaries, delayed promotions, and inadequate welfare systems.
“Faculty still seek better welfare. Salary concerns remain unresolved. Promotions must be timely and transparent,” he noted, outlining key priorities for his administration.
He also highlighted the need to strengthen faculty development programs, improve infrastructure, and ensure accountability in leadership—issues he said must move “from discussion to delivery.”
Commitment to Inclusive Leadership
The new ULFA president pledged to lead with transparency and openness, assuring members that their voices will be heard even in moments of disagreement.
“I will always be honest with you. I will listen to you, even when we disagree,” Dukuly said, emphasizing that meaningful reform can only be achieved through collective effort.
He called on faculty members to remain actively engaged, noting that no single leader can transform the association without broad participation.
Building on Past Gains
Dukuly acknowledged progress made under previous leadership, including efforts to address salary arrears, establish faculty support structures such as a credit union, and defend academic rights.
However, he stressed that significant work remains to be done to meet the expectations of faculty members and improve working conditions across the University of Liberia.
Looking Ahead
Framing his leadership as a defining moment for the association, Dukuly urged members to seize the opportunity to strengthen ULFA for future generations.
“When future faculty members look back on this moment, what will they say of us?” he asked. “Will they say we rose together and strengthened ULFA for generations to come?”
With a rallying call for unity and progress, Dukuly concluded with a message of optimism and determination:
“Yes, we can. Yes, we will. Yes, together, we shall.”
His presidency now begins amid high expectations, as faculty members look to see whether the promises of reform, unity, and improved welfare will translate into tangible results.
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