The leadership lawyers under the banner of the Liberia National Bar Association (LNBA) paid courtesy visit to the President of the University of Liberia (UL), Dr. Layli Maparyan.
The visit to the UL was headed by LNBA’s National President, Bornor M. Varmah, who said the visit followed Dr. Maparyan’s preferment by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to lead the state-run university.
During the visit, LNBA extended heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Maparyan on her appointment and expressed best wishes for a successful and impactful tenure as she assumes the leadership of the nation’s
premier institution of higher learning at a pivotal time in its history.
The Bar then reaffirmed its unflinching support to Dr. Maparyan’s administration, and underscored the significance of her leadership in transforming the UL into a center of excellence and innovation.
As an institution with vested interest in the affairs of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law, the LNBA underscored the importance of preserving and strengthening the semi-autonomy of the law school, particularly by allowing it to independently seek financial support for its operations, and manage its own finances, subject to administrative oversight by the university.
The LNBA also called for the reactivation of the international exchange program, particularly partnerships such as the previous collaboration with Indiana University School of Law, which resulted in the training of several Liberian lawyers, who returned and made meaningful contributions to legal education and national development.
The Association further commended the UL administration for the firm disciplinary actions taken in recent times against academic malpractices, including the suspension and dismissal of students and staffs involved in “unethical conduct,” describing these measures as commendable steps toward restoring academic integrity.
Moreover, the LNBA welcomed the university’s invitation to participate in the panel to vet candidates for the Dean of the Law School; an invitation the Bar considers as an honor.
The Bar assured the president that its members will appoint representatives to the panel in the coming days.
She reaffirmed her commitment to reposition the university to meet global standards.
Dr. Maparyan highlighted ongoing efforts to address longstanding issues, including reliable access to electricity and water system on the UL campuses.
She welcomed the LNBA’s offer of collaboration, particularly in relations to the law school, assuring to n continue seeking the Bar’s technical advice and guidance as needed.