The Board of Trustees and Senior Staff of Lofa County University (LCU) have successfully concluded a two-day strategic retreat held from March 13–14 in Gbarnga.
During this retreat, they made significant decisions aimed at strengthening governance, accountability, and academic quality at the university.
The retreat primarily focused on addressing the key challenges facing the university and identifying practical measures to improve its operations. By the end of the session, the Board approved 19 policies developed under the leadership of University President Dr. Isaac Podah.
Additionally, they established two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs): one with Ahmadu Bello University in Nigeria and another with the Change Agent Network in Fessibu Town, Zorzor District.
Under the partnership with Ahmadu Bello University, faculty members from the Colleges of Agriculture, Engineering, Science, and Technology will have opportunities to pursue advanced studies, which will enhance their professional capabilities. Meanwhile, the MOU with the Change Agent Network will enable Lofa County University to take control of institutional assets in Fessibu, valued at over US$450,000. This transfer follows a request from local stakeholders, including citizens of the Zorzor and Salayea Districts.
The planned takeover aims to expand the university’s infrastructure and support its long-term development agenda. The Board has tasked the administration with engaging relevant authorities, including the Lofa County Legislative Caucus, to ensure a smooth and transparent process.
Among the key policies approved is the Academic Policy, which establishes standards for teaching, learning, grading, and curriculum development. The Finance and Petty Cash Policies introduce stricter financial controls to enhance transparency and accountability. Additionally, the Procurement Policy defines clear procedures for acquiring goods and services.
Other policies include the Internal Audit Policy to improve oversight, the Risk and Infrastructure Policy to address safety and sustainability concerns, the Fixed Assets Policy for proper management of university property, and the Study Leave Policy to guide staff development, among others.
A Historic Milestone
University officials described the outcomes of the retreat as a major milestone, noting that it represents the first comprehensive set of policies adopted since the institution’s founding.
These decisions are expected to improve institutional management, enhance academic delivery, and position Lofa County University for sustained growth and stronger partnerships.
At the conclusion of the retreat, Board Chairman Rev. Victor Padmore commended members for their commitment and described the discussions as productive. He urged continued collaboration to advance the university’s development.
