By: S. Nimely Sonpon
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has pledged financial and institutional support to Change Agent Network University (CAN University) as part of efforts to strengthen education and agriculture in the country.
The move follows a partnership between the Liberian leader and development advocate Eric W. Wowoh, aimed at accelerating growth at the institution located in Zorzor District.
According to details of the initiative, President Boakai has provided US$5,000 to support completion of the university’s administrative building and an additional US$10,000 for the installation of a solar energy system.
The intervention is expected to improve infrastructure and enhance the learning environment for students and faculty.
“We are committed to the long-term agreement to support this institution because of its importance to the people it serves,” President Boakai said, emphasizing his development message: “Think Liberia, Love Liberia, and Build Liberia.”
CAN University, a fast-growing institution in northern Liberia, is increasingly seen as a critical center for expanding access to higher and technical education in underserved areas.
The government’s support aligns with broader efforts to decentralize education and promote skills development.
As part of the initiative, President Boakai also disclosed plans to establish academic collaboration with a partner university in Arizona to enhance professional training and provide international exposure for Liberian students.
The university itself reflects strong community backing. Land for the campus was donated by residents of Fissibu Town, while funding has been sourced from Liberians in the diaspora, local citizens, and international partners, including Friends of Liberia.
Community members have also contributed labor and logistical support.In addition to financial assistance, the President has pledged to facilitate the installation of a modern drilled-water system to improve access to safe water on campus.
The partnership also extends to agriculture through the Genesis Farm Project, a 150-acre initiative in Wozi Town spearheaded by Mr. Wowoh.
The project aims to promote sustainable farming and contribute to national food security, with the President encouraging scientific approaches such as soil testing to maximize productivity.
In recognition of his role in advancing agriculture, CAN University has announced plans to name its College of Agriculture after President Boakai.
The Liberian leader has also accepted an invitation to serve as commencement speaker at the university’s first graduation ceremony scheduled for July 2026.
The collaboration is being viewed as a significant step toward strengthening education, promoting agricultural development, and expanding opportunities for young people across Liberia.
