Monrovia – The investiture ceremony of the University of Liberia’s 16th president, Dr. Layli Maparyan, brought a sense of hope and renewal to the country’s flagship institution. However, a looming shadow hangs over the university’s finances, as questions arise about the staggering expenditures reported during the six-month tenure of the outgoing acting president, Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh.
Dr. Conteh, who served as interim president from July to December 2024, managed a period of relative stability for the university, reopening academic activities and conducting a long-delayed commencement.
Yet, an analysis of his financial stewardship reveals a total expenditure of $17.52 million in just six months, raising concerns about fiscal accountability and sustainability.
Breakdown of Spending Under Dr. Conteh’s Administration
According to Dr. Conteh in his farewell speech, the University of Liberia’s financial records show significant spending across several areas,
Personnel Costs: Approximately $16 million accounted for salaries, which made up 91.3% of the university’s total expenditure.
Materials, Supplies, and Services: Nearly $292,000 was spent during this period.
General Administrative Expenses: Over $1.1 million went toward running the university’s day-to-day operations.
Repairs and Maintenance: About $69,000 was allocated to maintain buildings, vehicles, and equipment. Capital Expenses: Another $39,000 went toward capital improvements.
Despite these expenditures, key issues remain unresolved.
Dr. Conteh acknowledged that the university still owes its adjunct faculty 29 million Liberian dollars (approximately USD 150,000) in arrears.
Meanwhile, the university’s renovation plans, estimated at $13.18 million, remain largely unfunded. The university’s fiscal report also highlighted a $4.8 million funding gap in its 2025 budget, reflecting structural inefficiencies in its financial planning.
Critics argue that these gaps should have been addressed during Dr. Conteh’s tenure rather than passing them on to the incoming administration.
Students grouping at the UL have voiced concerns about the sustainability of such high spending in a short period. Some students and faculty members argue that the funds did not significantly improve their academic or working conditions.
“Most of the classrooms still lack basic facilities like functional projectors and comfortable seating,” said a student representative who asked to remain anonymous. “We appreciate the buses purchased for the Straz-Sinje campus, but what about addressing the pressing needs on the main campus?”
A faculty member who prefers anonymity added, “The majority of the budget went to salaries, but there’s still no clear roadmap for promoting research or upgrading teaching resources. What exactly has changed?”
Hope for Reform Under Dr. Maparyan
As Dr. Layli Maparyan steps into her role as the university’s 16th President, expectations are high for a more transparent and sustainable approach to governance. In her acceptance speech, Dr. Maparyan emphasized inclusivity, innovation, and global engagement as core pillars of her vision. She also highlighted her experience in securing significant international grants, such as a $5 million USAID grant for higher education, as a testament to her ability to attract external funding.
Dr. Maparyan inherits a university still grappling with infrastructural deficits, limited resources, and financial challenges. Yet, her commitment to transparency and collaboration offers a glimmer of hope for stakeholders seeking meaningful reform.
As the University of Liberia embarks on this new chapter, questions about the previous administration’s financial decisions remain unanswered.
Some members of the university community are calling for a comprehensive audit of the funds used during Dr. Conteh’s tenure, as well as a clearer strategy for addressing the institution’s persistent challenges.
The focus now shifts to Dr. Maparyan and her ability to restore confidence in the university’s leadership while ensuring that future expenditures are aligned with tangible outcomes that benefit students, faculty, and staff alike
Support Independent Journalism
Your support helps FrontPage Africa continue delivering independent, credible, and impactful journalism. Every contribution strengthens our ability to investigate, inform, and hold power accountable while keeping quality journalism accessible to our readers.
Support our journalism or subscribe to receive the latest FrontPage Africa stories and updates.
