Monrovia-President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has pledged his administration’s unwavering support for the growth and development of the University of Liberia (UL), as he welcomed its newly appointed president, Dr. Layli Maparyan.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
In a meeting held at the Executive Mansion, President Boakai expressed optimism about Dr. Maparyan’s leadership, describing her appointment as a pivotal moment for the historic institution.
“Liberia is not new to you, and we are excited to have you at the helm of this historic institution,” President Boakai said.
He added that her leadership is expected to drive transformative growth at UL, aligning it with national education and workforce development priorities as outlined in the government’s ARREST Agenda.
According to an Executive Mansion release, President Boakai lauded the UL Board of Trustees for their thorough and transparent selection process, highlighting their commitment to ensuring exceptional leadership for the university.
“The Board’s work was thorough, and we appreciate the diligence it took to reach this point,” he noted.
For his part, Grand Kru County Senator Numene T.H. Bartekwa, Chairman of the UL Board of Trustees, officially presented Dr. Maparyan to the President and expressed confidence in her ability to address longstanding challenges and chart a progressive course for the university.
At the same time, outgoing UL President Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh also praised the selection process, emphasizing its adherence to international standards and the exceptional qualifications of Dr. Maparyan.
During the meeting, Dr. Maparyan expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for her new role.
Reflecting on her first visit to Liberia in 2009, she said, “Liberia is no longer just my second home, it is now my first home.”
Dr. Maparyan then pledged to dedicate herself fully to the progress of the University and Liberia at large.
The official convocation to induct Dr. Maparyan as President of the University of Liberia will take place on Friday, January 10, at the Fendall Campus.
The university is set to resume normal operations on January 13.
The appointment of Dr. Maparyan, an accomplished academic leader, is expected to usher in a new era for UL, reinforcing its mission to provide quality education and contribute to national development.
