PHOTO: AFA-UL leadership poses for picture after meeting UL administration
The Adjunct Faculty Association at the University of Liberia has distanced itself from the planned boycott of academic academic activities by the University of Liberia Faculty Association, as Augustine Octavius reports.
On August 29, 2025, the University of Liberia Faculty Association has announced an indefinite boycott of all academic activities at the state-run university following an emergency general assembly held Friday, August 29, on the Capitol Hill campus.
ULFA resolved that faculty members would disengage from all academic activities until the negotiated Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) is signed by the University of Liberia Administration, the Government of Liberia, and ULFA.
The decision stems from a July 18, 2025 General Assembly mandate which instructed ULFA’s Executive Committee to engage the University of Liberia Administration and other stakeholders on a series of long-standing concerns affecting faculty welfare.
But, in a press release issued in Monrovia late on Wednesday, AFA-UL said while it respects ULFA’s position, the group believes that dialogue is the way forward.
AFA-UL in a press statement signed by George Tengbeh, its Assistant Secretary General; and approved by Wilhelmina Garr Stevens, President added that it would not support any action that has the propensity to derail the advancement of higher education, which remains a priority for our Country, Liberia.
AFA-UL noted that it excluded itself because the decision by ULFA was made unilaterally without the say of AFA-UL
Secondly, AFA-UL also refused to be used as foot soldiers in a fight that ignores its contribution
AFA-UL pointed out that it believes in advocacy that pushes the organization’s vision and objectives, which include, but are not limited ensuring that qualified adjuncts are paid on time, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
According to AFA-UL, it will provide professional development opportunities for Adjunct faculty, and a system be put in place to allow qualified Adjunct faculty to transition to full-time employment.
Meanwhile, the Adjunct Faculty Association extends appreciation to the President of the University, Dr. Layli Maparyan, for her efforts in ensuring that faculty members receive their arrears and her willingness to always listen whenever she is called upon.
The association also embraced the concerns and engagement of the Board of Trustees and hence, the Adjunct Faculty Association called on all its members to continue their respective duties and responsibilities as the leadership continues to engage the leadership of the University of Liberia to provide equal dignity and respect for all.