MONROVIA – The National Commission on Higher Education (NCHE) has shut down 16 tertiary institutions across Liberia for allegedly operating illegally, lacking proper accreditation, and employing academically unqualified staff. The move, announced in a press release issued Monday, June 24, 2025, marks an intensified effort by the Commission to safeguard the integrity of the country’s higher education sector.
Making the disclosure at a press conference on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Dr. Edward Lama Wonkeryor, Director-General of the NCHE, said the affected institutions, which include health science schools, theological seminaries, management colleges, and media institutes, have been awarding diplomas, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and even PhDs outside the legal framework of the Ministry of Education and the NCHE. The Commission stated that these institutions violated the Higher Education Law of Liberia by operating without formal approval and offering substandard or unrecognized credentials
Students enrolled in these unaccredited schools have been advised to immediately cease their studies and consult the NCHE for guidance on transitioning to recognized institutions. The Commission emphasized that its crackdown is not only meant to protect students but to uphold academic integrity across Liberia.
Among the institutions ordered closed are: Mertu Institute of Health and Laboratory Sciences in Paynesville; Christ Laborers School System and Great Commission Christian University on Pipeline Road; Elizabeth Medical Institute of Health Sciences and Elizabeth Medical Health Center in Mount Barclay; Faith College of Professional Studies in Jacob’s Town; Millennium Institute of Health Sciences in Congo Town; and Liberty Theological Seminary on 15th & 16th Streets in Monrovia.
Others include Gonet Academy in Cooper Road; Monrovia Open Bible College in Sinkor; ACIDA Christian College in Ganta, Nimba County; Professional Journalism School of Liberia on GSA Road; Sabenqa School of Travel and Tourism on Gurley Street; Leemor V School of Health Assistant in Morris’ Farm; Vision Art Institute on Capitol Bypass; and New Dimension Theological Seminary at St. Peter High School in Paynesville.
The NCHE has cautioned the public not to enroll in any of the listed institutions and reiterated its intention to take further enforcement action against any unlicensed colleges or universities operating in the country. The Commission said the closure of these institutions serves as a warning to others and demonstrates its renewed commitment to standardizing and regulating Liberia’s academic landscape.
A complete list of the institutions affected is available at the NCHE headquarters in Monrovia and on the Commission’s official website.
