NPHIL and University of Liberia Sign MOU to Strengthen Scientific Research and Student Training

Monrovia – The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) and the University of Liberia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing the scientific research capacity of the university and providing students with practical, hands-on experience in biomedical and scientific research.

The agreement seeks to broaden students’ understanding of science by allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world laboratory settings.

Under the MOU, NPHIL will provide its Charleville facility for assigned students, make laboratory personnel available to guide them, and ensure access to the lab for teaching and research purposes. The University of Liberia, in turn, will submit the names of participating students and provide necessary materials to facilitate their practical learning experience, as well as any additional resources required beyond what NPHIL provides.

The parties agreed that all data generated through routine training and projects not affiliated with the university will remain the sole property of NPHIL. For projects affiliated with UL, all laboratory data and results will be held confidential by the students, NPHIL scientists, and any other personnel involved. Any public disclosure of such projects will require a written agreement and the consent of both parties or their authorized representatives.

All research and data collection under the MOU will strictly comply with professional ethical standards, which NPHIL will enforce during students’ time at the laboratory.

During the signing ceremony, UL President Dr. Layli Maparyan described the MOU as a significant step toward advancing the College of Science’s knowledge base and reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring the agreement’s objectives are fully realized.

Meanwhile, NPHIL Director General Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan praised Dr. Maparyan for her collaboration and pledged that NPHIL will ensure participating UL students receive the necessary training and support to excel in their teaching and research activities.