Capitol Hill, January 31, 2026 — In a major boost to the University of Liberia’s revitalization efforts, the National Port Authority (NPA) has kicked off a US $1 million fundraising campaign aimed at improving learning conditions across the University’s four campuses.

The funds will support the purchase of 30,000 armchairs, the renovation of multiple classrooms, and the rehabilitation of restroom facilities. The launch event, themed “Coming Together to Revitalize UL,” held January 30, 2026, at the university’s Capitol Hill campus, brought together university officials, NPA leadership, APM Terminals Liberia representatives, and members of the campus community, including students, faculty and staff.

UL President Dr. Layli Maparyan said the university’s rebirth is a multifaceted effort, inclusive of a cross-section of stakeholders—from the private sector to public partners and community members—and the fundraiser is an example of that.

“It reminds us that the future of the University of Liberia cannot be secured by one institution, one sector, or even one generation alone,” the President said.  “It requires collective responsibility, shared commitment, and a united belief that investing in UL is ultimately investing in Liberia’s.

NPA Managing Director Sekou A.M. Dukuly said the campaign’s purpose corresponds with the national vision of Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s government, highlighting its focus on education, skill development and restoring dignity to public institutions to shape the future of Liberia.

“Education remains the most enduring investment any nation can make in this future,” Mr. Dukuly said. “The University of Liberia, as the nation’s premier institution of higher learning, has for decades carried the historic burden of producing the intellectual capital that sustains our public, private sector, and civic life.”

The campaign jumpstarted with a US $75,000 donation from APM Monrovia. Mr. Rachid Baho, APM Terminals Liberia Managing Director and chief launcher of the campaign, said the fundraising initiative aligns closely with his institution’s belief that long-term development depends on investing in people, especially the young people.

“Supporting education is one of the most meaningful ways the private sector can contribute to national progress. What is particularly encouraging and exciting about this initiative is the emphasis on local impact,” said Mr. Baho. He’s also calling on other Liberian corporations to donate to the campaign.

In all, US $100,000 was raised during the campaign kickoff event. Donations will continue after the launch via a designated Ecobank account, Mobile Money, Orange Money, and Sendwave until the goal is reached.

Mr. Dukuly said the campaign correlates with the NPA’s corporate social responsibility, adding NPA is honored to lead a nationwide fundraising initiative to raise at least US$1 million for the UL.

“This initiative is aimed at procuring at least 30,000 chairs for our students, rehabilitating essential backgrounds, and supporting all their plans for renovation, including critical roofing repairs. This intervention is not charity, not at all,” he said.

Mr. Dukuly described it as a strategic national investment that his administration is committed to delivering on behalf of the NPA, the business community, all of the stakeholders, and the international partners. He believes a functionally dignified and conducive learning environment is essential to producing confident graduates who will deliver Liberia’s economic recovery, institutional reform, and social transformation.

By sourcing the chairs locally through technical, vocational education and training (TVET) centers, Mr. Baho believes that the project supports skills development, local production and meaningful opportunities for young people while meeting real and immediate needs at the University of Liberia.

Dr. Maparyan expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the NPA for its visionary partnership in this important cause and to APM for its generosity and leadership.

She assured the NPA and all stakeholders that proceeds from the campaign would directly fund the purchase of classroom chairs to enhance teaching and learning at UL. Additionally, funds will be used to renovate several classrooms for modern instruction and to rehabilitate crucial bathroom facilities, restoring dignity, health, and comfort for students, faculty, staff, and guests.

She also reminded potential donors that when they strengthen UL, they strengthen Liberia, and when they invest in education, they invest in stability. She acknowledged that their contributions are vital to advancing the university’s vision of a 21st-century University of Liberia—one that is innovative, resilient, and inclusive. She emphasized the goal of producing not just graduates, but problem solvers, ethical leaders, and nation builders who respond to the needs of Liberia’s next generation.

“Your support will be felt immediately in classrooms where students can learn with dignity, in facilities that inspire excellence, and in an institution that has shaped generations of Liberians and will continue to do so for generations yet unborn,” Dr. Maparyan said.