The Managing Director of the National Port Authority, Sekou M. Dukuly, has launched a nationwide fundraising initiative aimed at restoring and upgrading critical infrastructure at the University of Liberia.
Speaking Friday, January 30, 2026, at a program held in the UL auditorium, Dukuly described education as the most enduring investment any nation can make in its future.
He noted that the University of Liberia, the country’s premier institution of higher learning, has long carried the responsibility of producing the intellectual capital that sustains Liberia’s public service, private sector, and civic life. However, he said the institution is now grappling with severe infrastructural challenges that are undermining the learning experience of thousands of students.
The NPA chief acknowledged the leadership of Joseph Nyuma Boakai, whose ARREST Agenda prioritizes people-centered development, institutional renewal, and human capital formation as pillars of national recovery.
“The initiative we launch today is firmly aligned with that national vision—particularly its emphasis on education, skills development, and restoring dignity to the public institutions that will shape the future of our Republic,” Dukuly said.
According to him, the university’s difficulties stem not from neglect but from longstanding budgetary constraints that have slowed rehabilitation efforts even as enrollment continues to grow. He warned that these limitations place daily strain on both students and faculty and weaken the dignity of the academic environment.
Dukuly pointed to overcrowded lecture halls, inadequate seating, deteriorating restrooms, and classrooms affected by persistent roof leakages as urgent issues requiring immediate intervention.
In response, the National Port Authority, one of Liberia’s leading state-owned enterprises, has committed to spearheading a nationwide campaign to raise at least US$1 million.
“In keeping with the reformist and action-oriented spirit championed by President Boakai, and in line with our Corporate Social Responsibility mandate, the NPA is honored to lead this initiative,” he stated.
Funds raised will support the procurement of 28,000 student chairs, rehabilitation of essential bathroom facilities, and critical classroom renovations, including roofing repairs.
Dukuly emphasized that the intervention should not be viewed as charity but as a strategic national investment.
“A functional, dignified, and conducive learning environment is essential to producing competent graduates who will drive Liberia’s economic recovery and institutional reform. When we strengthen the University of Liberia, we strengthen the Republic itself.”
He described the NPA–UL fundraising effort as a collective call to action, urging collaboration among public institutions, the private sector, development partners, and citizens.
“National development is not the burden of government alone—it requires shared responsibility,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, UL President, Dr. Layli Maparyan praised the NPA’s support, calling it a testament to the power of collective effort in advancing higher education.
She reaffirmed the university’s commitment to progress and thanked staff and partners for their continued dedication, noting that the theme “Coming Together to Revitalize UL” reflects shared ownership of the institution’s future.
Meanwhile, APM Terminals Managing Director and Chief Launcher Rachid Baho shared personal stories of sacrifice in pursuit of education, describing it as a powerful equalizer capable of transforming lives.
APM Terminals pledged US$75,000 toward the US$1 million goal, drawing applause from attendees.
The fundraiser marks what organizers hope will be the beginning of sustained national support for restoring dignity, quality, and opportunity within Liberia’s foremost public university.
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