“Remove Boakai’s Name From Our Agriculture College”

A growing public backlash has erupted across Bong County following Bong County University’s (BCU) decision to name its College of Agriculture after President Joseph Boakai, with many residents questioning the timing, transparency, and fairness of the university’s decision.

The naming announcement has ignited widespread debate, as critics argue that the university overlooked several respected educators, community leaders, and public figures whose contributions to the establishment and growth of Bong County University are widely recognized.

 Many residents contended that those individuals deserved consideration before honoring a sitting President. Community members have openly questioned the criteria used by the university to select names for its newly designated colleges.  They argued that the administration has not sufficiently explained how the decision was reached or whether key stakeholders, including alumni, faculty, students, and local leaders, were consulted before the announcement. According to critics, the controversy extends beyond the name itself. They say the decision reflects broader concerns about transparency and governance within public institutions, where symbolic recognition can become the subject of political debate. Several residents have expressed concern that universities should preserve their independence by recognizing individuals based on documented contributions to the institution and the advancement of education. The decision has sparked lively discussion throughout Bong County, with many citizens calling for the university to release the standards used in its selection process. Others have urged the administration to engage the public in meaningful dialogue and consider whether the naming accurately reflects the institution’s history and the people who helped build it. Supporters of the decision have argued that President Boakai’s national leadership and longstanding public service make him deserving of recognition.  However, critics maintained that the issue is not the President personally but whether the honor was awarded through a transparent and inclusive process. As public debate continues, Bong County University faces increasing calls to explain its decision and reassure residents that future institutional honors will be guided by openness, fairness, and respect for the university’s history.

The controversy has transformed what was intended as a ceremonial recognition into a broader conversation about accountability, public trust, and how lasting legacies should be honored in Liberia’s institutions of higher learning.