President Boakai Administration Boosts National Commission On Higher Education (NCHE) Budget; Lauds Historic Increase.
By: Melvin Flomo
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In a recent press briefing at the Ministry of Information Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Dr. Edward Lama Wonkeryor, Executive Director of the National Commission on Higher Education (NCHE), commended the Boakai-led administration for its notable increase in the Commission’s budget.
The 2024 national budget sees the NCHE’s funding rise from US$330,000 to a substantial US$1 million, a significant boost that Dr. Wonkeryor described as a crucial step forward for higher education in Liberia.
The budgetary increase, initiated by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, reflects the administration’s responsiveness to ongoing appeals for more robust support. Since 2022, Dr. Wonkeryor has been vocal about the need for enhanced funding to address the myriad challenges faced by the higher education sector.
“The Boakai administration’s commitment is evident in this historic budgetary increase,” Dr. Wonkeryor stated. “This substantial funding boost is a clear indication of the government’s dedication to improving educational standards across the country.”The National Commission On Higher Education was established by an Act of the National Legislature in 1989, the NCHE has been instrumental in regulating, managing, and monitoring higher education programs nationwide.
However, for years, the Commission has struggled with insufficient budgetary allocations, hindering its ability to effectively carry out its mandate. Dr. Wonkeryor highlighted several key areas where the increased budget will have an immediate impact. These include improving infrastructure, enhancing faculty development, and expanding access to higher education for underserved communities.
“The additional funds will enable us to address longstanding issues, such as inadequate facilities and the need for more qualified educators,” he explained. “We can now move forward with plans to upgrade our institutions and provide better resources for students and staff alike.”
The Executive Director also emphasized the broader implications of the budget increase for Liberia’s development. “Investing in higher education is critical for national growth,” he noted. “An educated populace is essential for economic development, innovation, and social progress.”
Dr. Wonkeryor expressed gratitude to President Boakai and the national government for recognizing the importance of higher education. He urged continued support and collaboration to ensure that the sector can meet its full potential.”This is just the beginning,” he said. “We must build on this momentum and work together to create a sustainable and vibrant higher education system that serves all Liberians.”
The budgetary increase for the NCHE is a landmark achievement, promising to pave the way for significant advancements in Liberia’s higher education landscape. As the nation looks forward to these improvements, the NCHE remains committed to its mission of fostering excellence in higher education.
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