By Amos Harris
Assistant Professor Alhaji S. M. Dukuly has pledged to protect and defend the interests of faculty members at the University of Liberia, promising a new era of unity, professionalism, and institutional advancement. Speaking during an impressive induction ceremony held over the weekend at the University of Liberia Auditorium, Dukuly assured the academic community that his administration remains fully committed to advancing faculty welfare and strengthening the role of the University of Liberia Faculty Association (ULFA).
Dukuly described his election as President of ULFA not as a personal achievement, but as a sacred responsibility entrusted to him by colleagues who desire stronger representation and meaningful transformation. The Tilburg University alumnus emphasized that his leadership will prioritize the dignity and professional growth of lecturers and academic staff across the entire university system. He further noted that under his stewardship, ULFA will serve as a strategic partner in national educational development while promoting transparency and accountability within the association.
The colorful ceremony was attended by senior university administrators, members of the Board of Trustees, students, and several invited dignitaries. Notable figures in attendance included Vice President for Academic Affairs and Officer-in-Charge Prof. Agnes Reeves-Taylor, Dabah M. Varpilah, and Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo, all of whom added significance to the historic transition.
In his inaugural remarks, Dukuly praised the outgoing ULFA President, Dr. Edna G. Johnny, for her visionary and courageous leadership. He credited her administration with restoring the voice of the faculty, successfully advocating for salary adjustments, securing functional office space, and establishing a Credit Union. Dukuly stated that these achievements have laid a solid foundation upon which his administration intends to build a more vibrant and influential association.
Characterizing faculty members as the intellectual backbone of the University of Liberia, Dukuly stressed their critical role in shaping the nation’s future doctors, lawyers, engineers, and leaders. He argued that the university’s growth and national relevance are inextricably linked to the motivation and well-being of its academic workforce.
Outlining his vision for the future, the new ULFA President announced several ambitious initiatives aimed at modernizing the association. Key projects include the launch of a Digital ULFA Platform, the development of a professional website, and the introduction of faculty identification cards to foster institutional pride. Additionally, Dukuly disclosed plans to establish a Faculty Health and Wellness Program to support lecturers facing stress and burnout, alongside a Research and Innovation Support Fund to assist with academic publications and international partnerships.
Dukuly concluded with a call for unity and solidarity, urging faculty members to set aside divisions and work collectively for the advancement of higher education. He reaffirmed that ULFA would remain a united family of professionals dedicated to building a stronger University of Liberia and contributing to the overall progress of the nation.