In a decisive move to uphold academic integrity, the University of Liberia (UL) has dismissed eight employees following a damning investigative report confirming widespread academic fraud. The findings, which included the high-profile “Dorr Cooper Incident,” revealed a coordinated scheme involving multiple university departments.
UL President Dr. Julius J.S. Nelson, also known as Dr. Maparyan, announced the disciplinary measures today after receiving the final report from the Special Committee to Investigate Academic Fraud. The four-month probe uncovered misconduct within the Department of Public Administration (PADM), the Office of Enrollment Services (OES), and the Office of Information Technology (OIT).
“Academic fraud is the antithesis of academic integrity and the enemy of academic excellence,” Dr. Maparyan declared. “On my watch, the University of Liberia will be restored to its rightful place as an institution of credibility and ethical scholarship.”
The sanctions include:
- Eight employees terminated immediately
- One suspended until December 2025
- Two cleared due to insufficient evidence
To prevent future misconduct, the university is implementing sweeping reforms:
- Permanent Anti-Fraud Committee: The investigative team will transition into a standing Committee to Investigate Academic Fraud (CIAF).
- Whistleblower Protection: A UL Whistleblower Platform (ULWP) will allow students, staff, and alumni to report fraud anonymously.
- Overhaul of Enrollment Services: The OES, a key department implicated in the scandal, will undergo complete restructuring.
- Stricter Policies: Updated policies and awareness campaigns will reinforce ethical standards for students and staff.
Dr. Maparyan emphasized that these measures mark the beginning of a zero-tolerance policy toward academic fraud. “We will not allow corruption to undermine Liberia’s future leaders,” he stated. “From today, UL stands for integrity, excellence, and accountability.”
The move has been met with mixed reactions, applause from reform advocates and apprehension among those fearing further scrutiny. However, the administration insists this is a necessary step to rebuild trust in Liberia’s premier higher education institution.
As the dust settles, one message is clear: The era of impunity at UL is over.
