By: Julius Konton
Former Director General of the National Commission on Higher Education Dr. Michael P. Slawon has penned down a comprehensive communication to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai recommending a strategic re-evaluation of academic offerings for Liberia’s National Development.
“Your Excellency, I write to you today with profound respect and admiration for your continued efforts to advance higher education in our beloved country”, the communication added.
In a well structured and researched communication, Dr. Slawon said the introduction of new academic programs, such as the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Gender and Security Studies, is a testament to the University of Liberia’s commitment to academic growth and its ambition to engage with complex global issues.
“This initiative is a clear sign that we are looking to elevate our national discourse and contribute to the global academic community”, he re-emphasized.
However, the former NCHE boss stressed that as a professional with decades of experience in higher education administration and capacity building, he feel it is his responsibility to raise a critical question regarding the strategic alignment of said program with the most urgent needs of the Liberian populace.
According to him, While the study of gender and security is of intellectual importance, the nation’s most pressing challenges are socio-economic, requiring immediate and tangible solutions a challenge which President Boakai’s administration seeks to address.
He stated that Liberia is a country that stands as a beacon of gender equality in Africa, a nation that proudly elected the continent’s first female President, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
He pointed out that Liberia have made remarkable strides in ensuring that women and girls have access to education, political life, and professional careers, noting that the Country’s progress in said area is a point of national pride and an example for others to follow internationally.
At the same time , he indicated that given the Nation’s current reality, it is imperative that the academic institutions prioritize programs that can provide immediate relief and foster sustainable development.
The seasoned educator uses the occasion to urge the University of Liberia to consider a strategic shift toward offering practical, demand-driven degree programs which will directly equip the youth with the skills needed to build the economy and infrastructure from the ground up and position themselves to compete globally.
As a means of further growth and development of the sector, Dr. Slawon specifically proposed the development of programs in key areas of focus to include Entrepreneurship, the move isnmeantbto to cultivate a new generation of job creators and innovators.
Information Technology & Cybersecurity: this he pointed our will help build a robust digital infrastructure and protect the national assets.
Others are Project Management, the former Higher Education head stated that said will ensure the efficient and effective execution of development projects.
Energy and Infrastructure, this will help address the Country’s fundamental needs for power and connectivity.
Agriculture and Agro-industry, To modernize food production and secure the nation’s food future.
Additionally he named , Science, intended to leverage data for informed policymaking and business decisions, Healthcare & Technology meant to strengthen Liberia’s public health system and improve medical outcomes among others.
According to him, These fields of study are not merely academic pursuits; they are the foundations upon which a prosperous and resilient Liberia will be built.
Moreover, he indicated that they are the keys to creating jobs, improving lives, and directly addressing the suffering that still plagues many of the people of Liberia.
Dr. Slawon also disclosed that by focusing on these areas, the University of Liberia can truly align its mission with the most critical developmental needs of Liberia.
“I am confident that with your visionary leadership, the University can continue to be a pillar of excellence and a direct catalyst for national transformation”, he maintained.
The Seasoned Liberian Education expert very passionate and determined to see the transformation of the sector also commit with his energy and professionalism to be available and eager to discuss said matter, unveiling his availability and expertise in strategic planning and curriculum development to support this crucial initiative.
