The Bomi Community College (BCC) and the Community of Hope Agriculture Project (CHAP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) focusing on nine key thematic areas aimed at strengthening agricultural education and promoting food security in Liberia.
The agreement, signed on Wednesday at the BCC campus in Tubmanburg, was officially attested to by BCC President, Dr. Zobong Norman, and CHAP Executive Director, Rev. Robert S.M. Bimba. The MOU establishes a framework for collaboration, particularly in agricultural training, research, and practical application.
The agreement outlines several commitments, including the allocation of 20 hectares of lowland for cultivation, practical training, and research purposes. This land will serve as a demonstration site for students pursuing internships and practical experiences in rice farming, vegetable cultivation, and aquaculture. Notably, three percent of the farm’s proceeds will be allocated to BCC.
Technical assistance will be provided to BCC in developing a curriculum that incorporates the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), the System of Crop Intensification (SCI), climate resilience strategies, and digital mapping techniques to enhance student training.
The partnership also includes the sharing of learning opportunities and lobbying for support to maintain the demonstration site. Both institutions will work together to promote visibility through their social media platforms, host an annual partnership showcase, and provide agricultural inputs and implements. Additionally, student performance evaluations will be conducted at the end of internships.
During the signing ceremony, CHAP Executive Director, Rev. Robert S.M. Bimba, emphasized that the MOU reflects a strong collaboration between CHAP and BCC in addressing Liberia’s food security challenges. He noted that the initiative will particularly focus on building capacity in the agricultural sector, with a keen interest in supporting colleges and universities that offer agriculture programs.
“This MOU calls for cooperation and coordination that will help both entities share agricultural skills and knowledge. Our goal is to ensure Liberia keeps pace with other nations in empowering students to explore agriculture as a viable career path and contribute to making the country self-sufficient in food production,” Rev. Bimba stated.
BCC President, Dr. Zobong Norman, welcomed the partnership, describing it as a significant boost for the college’s Agriculture Department. He highlighted the agreement as a major milestone in BCC’s history and emphasized its role in strengthening the institution’s partnerships and academic offerings.
“This MOU will enhance the learning capacity of our students and further strengthen BCC’s Agriculture Department. We are committed to ensuring that all aspects of this agreement are implemented effectively,” Dr. Norman affirmed.
Both Rev. Bimba and Dr. Norman pledged their commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the MOU for the benefit of BCC, CHAP, and Liberia at large.
Established in 2005 and formally enacted in 2012, Bomi Community College is the oldest government-owned community college in Liberia. The institution has consistently provided quality education, offering Associate of Arts (AA) degrees in various disciplines within a two-year academic time frame.
Founded and registered in Liberia, CHAP is a leading agricultural initiative dedicated to sustainable development. The organization specializes in local rice cultivation and community empowerment, fostering self-reliance and economic growth through sustainable farming practices.
CHAP remains committed to elevating Liberia’s agricultural sector by bridging the gap between food production and nutritional needs. The organization’s goal is to cultivate hope and prosperity, ensuring a food-secure future for all Liberians.
