ADNews-Monrovia: The Liberian leader, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has appointed an American National, Dr. Layli Maparyan to head the highest state-run educational institution, the University of Liberia (UL) among qualified Liberians.
The decision, announced on January 4, 2025, has raised eyebrows due to the abundance of highly qualified Liberian candidates for the prestigious position.
Dr. Maparyan, who was born in New York, raised in Georgia and Florida, and currently resides in Massachusetts, USA, will now lead the nation’s highest state-run educational institution. The decision to appoint a foreign national in a time of economic hardship and widespread unemployment in Liberia has sparked debate.
Boakai expressed confidence in Dr. Maparyan’s leadership abilities and experience.
In a letter of appointment, Boakai praised Dr. Maparyan’s integrity, professional background, and the trust he places in her to serve both the university and the nation.
However, the appointment has drawn criticism, especially given the abundance of qualified Liberians who could have filled the role. Sources close to the president have suggested that Senator Prince Moye of Bong County, a staunch member of Boakai’s ruling Unity Party, played a key role in influencing the decision. Senator Moye’s connections with Dr. Maparyan are believed to have had a significant impact on the outcome.
Dr. Maparyan’s appointment marks her first major leadership in such a position and while her credentials are impressive, the move has fueled ongoing discussions about the preference for foreign nationals in key positions within Liberia’s government and institutions, particularly at a time when many qualified Liberians remain unemployed.
The decision has sparked a national debate on the balance between expertise and national representation in positions of power.
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