UL Disciplinary Action Sparks Concern -Activist Calls for Balanced Approach, Urgent Reforms

MONROVIA – Economist and human rights activist Stanley Quaye has expressed serious concern over the planned disciplinary actions against students at the University of Liberia (UL), urging the University Discipline Committee to consider the broader circumstances that led to the students’ actions.

In a letter addressed to the Committee, Mr. Quaye highlighted prolonged frustrations faced by students, including unsafe and deteriorating buildings, overcrowded classrooms, under-resourced laboratories, outdated libraries, and unreliable internet access. He noted that repeated complaints and peaceful expressions of concern have yielded little to no visible improvement in learning conditions.

“These actions did not arise out of disregard for authority,” Mr. Quaye said. “They were precipitated by years of neglect, inadequate infrastructure, and the administration’s failure to address conditions that directly affect students’ education, safety, and dignity.”

Mr. Quaye also criticized the suspension of UL’s official website, emphasizing that in 2026, it is unacceptable for Liberia’s premier institution of higher learning to lack an accessible digital presence.

The activist further warned that the failure to modernize UL damages Liberia’s national image. “A country’s university system reflects its commitment to education and development. When graduates cannot compete regionally or internationally due to poor training and limited exposure to modern tools, the nation’s credibility suffers,” he said.

Quaye urged the Discipline Committee to ensure that any judgment is fair and balanced, taking into account institutional responsibility.

The activist called for urgent engagement with students and immediate improvements to the learning environment.

 He also noted students’ efforts to maintain and improve campus buildings, which have gone largely unaddressed by both university authorities and government agencies.

“The University of Liberia has a proud history,” Mr. Quaye concluded. “This moment presents an opportunity to demonstrate fairness, accountability, and a commitment to student welfare.”