FENDALL CAMPUS, Montserrado County – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. on Friday, February 27, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming higher education in Liberia, announcing over US$6 million in budgetary allocation for infrastructure improvements at the University of Liberia (UL) and personally donating US$50,000 toward a proposed research laboratory project.
Speaking as Visitor to the University at the institution’s 105th Commencement Convocation for Graduate and Professional Schools, President Boakai congratulated the graduating Class of 2025 and described UL as “our national flagship and one of the gateways for our youth to the middle class.”
“It is a pleasure to be here today as we celebrate the 105th Commencement Convocation — a celebration of yet another milestone in the proud history of the University and the intellectual and professional life of our nation,” the President said.
$6 Million for Modernization
Boakai disclosed that in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, his government has allocated more than US$6 million to improve facilities across the University of Liberia.
“Our students deserve an environment that reflects the dignity of their aspirations and the seriousness of their purpose,” he stated, emphasizing that Liberia must invest in world-class education to compete in a globalized economy.
He stressed that infrastructure upgrades alone would not be sufficient to elevate UL’s standing, calling for strengthened accountability systems across academic, administrative, and financial operations.
“Excellence is never accidental. It is the product of discipline, integrity, and the courage to uphold standards,” he said. “This is how we will restore the full prestige of the University of Liberia and position it competitively on the global stage.”
A Call for Institutional Reform
The President urged the University’s leadership to deepen reforms and uphold high standards, noting that transformation must go beyond buildings and budgets.
“We are not content to maintain the status quo. We are driven by a national momentum for significant transformation,” he declared.
He also encouraged a revitalized and more engaged Alumni Association, describing it as a strategic partner in strengthening UL’s reputation, mobilizing resources, and expanding career opportunities for graduates.
“As an alumnus myself, I encourage the Alumni Association of this great Institution to organize, reconnect, and recommit themselves to their alma mater,” Boakai said.
$50,000 Personal Contribution
In one of the most striking moments of the ceremony, President Boakai pledged US$50,000 toward a proposed modern Research Laboratory project initiated by the graduating class leadership.
“In recognition of this initiative, and as a demonstration of my personal commitment to youth-driven development, I am pleased to contribute an initial Fifty Thousand United States Dollars toward the Research Laboratory Project,” he announced to applause.
The President clarified that the funds would come from savings generated by his voluntary salary reduction.
“The amount is from savings gleaned from my voluntary salary reduction. We will continue to spread my salary reduction savings to support meaningful and impactful projects in our country,” he said.
Campus Culture and Responsible Activism
Addressing campus culture, Boakai acknowledged UL’s historic role in student activism and national consciousness but cautioned that activism must be guided by responsibility.
“Let this campus remain a marketplace of ideas and a citadel of innovation and advancement, not a battleground of conflict,” he urged.
He emphasized that true leadership is demonstrated through discipline, vision, and reason—not force.
Message to Graduates
Turning to the Class of 2025, President Boakai described the graduates as the “specialized workforce Liberia needs” and challenged them to serve with integrity and patriotism.
“You are leaving these walls at a time when Liberia is ready for your expertise,” he said. “Be the leaders who prioritize governance over greed and vision over vintage.”
In closing, he urged the graduates to carry forward a national ethos of service and commitment.
“Go forth and be the light in the darkness. And in all that you do, remember to always Think Liberia, Love Liberia, and Build Liberia.”
The 105th Commencement Convocation brought together members of the Legislature, Cabinet officials, university administrators, faculty, alumni, and families to celebrate what the President described as “another milestone in the intellectual and professional life of our nation.”
With new funding commitments, calls for accountability, and a personal financial pledge from the President, the ceremony marked not only a graduation milestone—but also a renewed national focus on strengthening Liberia’s premier public university.
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