President Boakai’s call is a wake-up call for the Ministry of Education and the National Commission for Higher Learning.
By Stephen G. Fellajuah
Margibi County, February 24, 2025-President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, over the weekend, called for stricter oversight and regulation of universities to ensure quality education in the country.
President Boakai, while speaking at the 3rd Commencement ceremony of Margibi University, noted that the rapid increase in substandard institutions can dilute academic standards, produce graduates who are not well-prepared for the job market, and ultimately hinder national development.
His call to action suggests that the Ministry of Education and the National Commission on Higher Education need to take concrete steps to enforce accreditation standards and improve higher education quality.
He emphasized that the mushrooming of substandard universities in the country must be addressed head-on by the Ministry of Education and the National Commission on Higher Education because it is unjust and undermines the country’s development. The children of this country deserve the best.
Boakai made the call when he delivered the commencement address at the 2025 Graduation Ceremony of Margibi University, Harbel City, Margibi County, Liberia, on Friday, February 22, 2025.
He further emphasized that the accreditation of educational institutions as universities should be a thorough process grounded in clear, well-defined criteria.
The President said, “We must remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering quality education that equips our students to lead with excellence.”
The Liberian leader also emphasized that technical training and career mentoring are vital motivators for young people’s success. Therefore, Margibi University should continue to engage qualified faculty, trainers, and mentors.
“It is also essential that Margibi University continues to enhance its infrastructure and capacity. This includes an upgraded library, the integration of modern information and communication technologies, and the development of teaching resources that will provide the best learning experience for students,” President Boakai said.
Subsequently, he said that as technology evolves, “we must ensure that our education system is aligned with global standards and prepares students for future challenges,” noting that financial support is equally vital for the long-term sustainability of this institution.
In addition, the President seeks the collaboration of local and international partners, including corporations such as Firestone and China Union, to ensure that Margibi University remains well-resourced for effective teaching and learning.
He told the gathering, “We will support you in continuing to contribute to Liberia’s educational and economic development.”
His emphasis that the nation must continue to invest in and strengthen this institution suggests what government must do for all higher education institutions across the country to ensure they maintain and surpass the highest educational standards. This is why everyone must be cautious about the proliferation of institutions claiming university status.
As the third graduating class of Margibi University and the first to graduate since the institution’s elevation to university status, explaining that the institution has set a high standard of excellence and accomplished something truly remarkable, and for this, it should be proud.
“Your graduation today is more than a personal achievement. According to him, it is also a milestone in the ongoing development of Margibi University and, indeed, the education system of Liberia. The knowledge and skills you have acquired here are expected to serve as a foundation for your contribution to the public good”, he intimated.
He also mentioned that the leadership they (graduates) will provide is important. The world today is marked by uncertainty and transformation, but it is full of possibilities. Earning your degree places you in a unique position to help lead Liberia into a prosperous and just future, he encouraged the students. You are now part of a proud legacy that is Margibi University. Edited by Othello B. Garblah.
