The Board of Trustees of Lofa County University (LCU) has approved a proposed US$3.7 million budget for 2027.
The budget goes alongside a series of development measures to improve staff welfare, expand infrastructure, and strengthen operations.
The decisions were reached during a one-day board meeting in Voinjama, according to a statement published on the university’s official Facebook page.
The Board authorized the administration, headed by the President, Dr. Isaac P. Podah, to utilize university resources for staff capacity building, reopen the institution’s office in Monrovia, upgrade its Smart School, and E-Portal systems, and make the cafeteria fully operational.
As part of efforts to address accommodation challenges, the trustees also authorized the administration to pursue a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to complete the dormitory project.
Members of the Board meanwhile, advised the administration to consult former Senator Steven Zargo, who initiated the dormitory construction, before proceeding with the proposed arrangement.
The Trustees further urged the university administration to engage relevant authorities, particularly the county Legislative Caucus, to pursue the restoration of the institution to its pre-autonomous status under the law that established it.
During the meeting, Podah briefed the Board on the infrastructure development, agricultural activities, and academic programs.
He also highlighted the growing need for additional classrooms in response to increasing student enrollment.
Meanwhile, the Comptroller, Janet Flomo Lloyd, has presented an update on the financial position, and the proposed 2027 budget.
Following Madam Lloyd’s presentation, the Board approved the US$3.7 million budget proposal, and requested that copies be distributed to all Trustees.
According to the statement, the proposed budget includes provisions for salary increases for lecturers, and other employees, subject to approval by the Legislature.
The proposed budget, and accompanying development measures are expected to support the efforts to improve working conditions, strengthen academic delivery, and address infrastructure needs as enrollment continues to grow.
At the conclusion of the meeting, members of the Board toured the main campus, and commended Podah for the changes implemented since he assumed office in 2024.
