The President of the state-run University of Liberia (UL), Dr. Layli Maparyan, has threatened administrators with suspension, and dismissal with immediate effect.
The threat comes in the wake of ongoing go-slow action led by some members of the faculty.
A memo that contained the dismissal threat was addressed to all academic deans, directors, deputy directors, and chairpersons, all administrative associate vice presidents, directors, and deputy directors, the comptroller, the chief accountant with carbon copy (cc) to UL Cabinet.
It was dated Wednesday, July 29, referencing the clarification of responsibilities of the administration.
“Collectively,” the memo added: “These officers form the UL Administration, and are a distinct class of employees separate from faculty and staff, even though some members of UL Administration may have academic titles, or teach overload courses.”
“The UL Administration is charged with governing, and managing the university under the supervision of the Board of Trustees through its Executive Officer, the President of UL.
It is the responsibility of the UL Administration to ensure that the university delivers on its statutory educational mission. That educational mission, is defined in Article I, Section 1, of the Charter as follows: that the university shall be perpetually maintained in this Republic for the education of the people of this, and of other countries, and for all who seek its advantages.”
This law requires members of UL Administration to be on duty. Therefore, members of UL Administration should not vote in ULFA, or ULSA elections, and are not to participate in faculty, or staff-led work stoppages, go-slow actions, or strikes.
“Any member of UL Administration found to be participating in, aiding, or abetting faculty, or staff-led work stoppages, go-slow actions, or strikes, will receive a warning letter, which will be added to his or her personnel file.
More severe cases, in which members of UL Administration are found to have aided in the disruption of normal activities at the university, may be subject to more severe penalties, such as suspension, revocation of administrative title, or termination, in accordance with applicable law.
Please note that the Decent Work Act, the Civil Service Standing Orders, and the National Code of Conduct for All Public Officials and Employees contain clear provisions prohibiting, limiting, or providing procedural guidance on workplace disruptions such as work stoppages, go-slow actions, and strikes.
As government employees, members of UL Administration are cautioned to abide by these laws so as not to undermine the university’s ability to deliver on its educational mission.”
