Capitol Hill, August 30, 2025 | The University of Liberia (UL) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) on Thursday, August 28, 2025, signed a milestone joint strategic collaboration on Master’s program in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Innovation, Tech, Research, and Strategic Plan Development and Support.

The signing ceremony between UL President Prof. Dr. Layli Maparyan and UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Aliou Mamadou Dia was held in President Maparyan’s Capitol Hill office.

According to the Project Document, UNDP has been selected as the implementing partner, and close consultations will be held between the UL and UNDP on all aspects of the activities surrounding the project.

With due diligence and efficiency, UL is fully responsible for carrying out all activities in accordance with its financial regulations, rules, and other directives, only to the extent they are consistent with UNDP’s financial regulations and rules.

The document details that upon signature of the MoU, UNDP will make payments to the UL, according to the schedule of payments specified in the instrument.

Welcoming the UNDP Resident Representative at her office, President Maparyan recollected Mr. Dia’s initial expression of support during her inauguration in January, and then thanked him for carrying it through all the way to today.

“… One of the most memorable moments of my inauguration day was when you came up to me in the parking lot after my inauguration speech and you said, I want to work with you, I think there are some great things we can do together,” Dr. Maparyan recalled

Over the last eight months, Dr. Maparyan stated that it wasn’t just words between her and the UNDP Envoy, but a real friendship and thinking together about the future.

Responding, Mr. Dia appreciated Dr. Maparyan’s exciting welcome, saying that once they have signed the MoU, the next step is implementation.

“And that’s where we need to make a difference. And hopefully, under your leadership, Professor Boley and your entire senior management team will definitely put something big,” said Mr. Dia.

The UNDP Resident Representative informed President Maparyan that for his time in Liberia, he wants to leave a big legacy for the University of Liberia.

“And so we’re starting. And thank you for giving us the opportunity,” he added.

For her part, UL Vice President for Institutional Development and Planning Prof. Weade Kobbah Boley thanked Mr. Dia for the partnership with the University. She also expressed gratitude to President Maparyan for the support and for being in touch with everything.