Changing the Narrative: The Strengths and Future of Small Colleges and Universities in Liberia

In a country like Liberia, where resources can be limited and the challenges in education numerous, it’s easy for smaller colleges and universities to be overlooked. Working closely with institutions like Bushrod College of Science and Technology and Nakita D. Forh College of Medical and Health Sciences, I’ve witnessed both the unique challenges and remarkable strengths these colleges bring to our educational landscape. Through my experiences, I've come to understand the immense potential of small colleges and universities in Liberia, and I’m committed to helping change the narrative that too often limits their growth.

Small Colleges: The Pathway to Accessible and Relevant Education

My journey with small colleges began with a vision: to provide accessible and career-focused education to students who may not have the means or opportunity to attend larger institutions. Small colleges in Liberia play a crucial role in bringing education to communities, creating pathways for students who might otherwise be left behind. For example, our programs in midwifery, physician assistant training, and computer science are designed to meet real-world demands while equipping students with the practical skills they need to enter the workforce quickly.

One of my projects included creating a clinical procedures textbook specifically for healthcare students at Bushrod College. With Liberia’s healthcare sector constantly needing qualified professionals, I wanted our students to have a reliable, practical guide that would support their growth and competence in clinical settings. Experiences like this have shown me how small colleges can effectively address specific community needs and adapt to the realities of our workforce, making them indispensable in Liberia’s educational system.

Building Collaborative Partnerships for Growth

I’ve also had the opportunity to work with Codecademy and other partners to bring new opportunities into our curriculum. By integrating Codecademy career paths and relevant software tools, our students gain access to skills that prepare them for local and even global job markets. The partnership with Codecademy has been invaluable in creating programs that combine theoretical knowledge with real-world applications in computer science, data analysis, and digital tools.

In addition, I’ve worked on fostering ties with local communities, religious organizations, and healthcare facilities to further expand our reach and influence. For instance, partnering with mosques in Monrovia to share information about our programs in midwifery and physician assistant training has opened doors for us to better serve and support Muslim students. Such connections help us bridge cultural gaps and strengthen the role of small colleges as pillars of their communities.

Overcoming Challenges and Crafting Solutions

Working in small colleges means constantly finding creative solutions to persistent challenges. Whether it’s making the most of limited resources, designing curricula from scratch, or developing marketing strategies on a tight budget, each day presents a new test of our adaptability and commitment.

For example, marketing on a shoestring budget required a strategic approach. For Bushrod College, we designed a plan that included social media boosts, community engagement through open house events, and targeted outreach across nearby communities. This kind of hands-on, community-based marketing allowed us to maximize impact without exceeding our resources. Even with a $2,500 budget, we could promote our programs effectively, proving that small colleges don’t need huge funds to make a difference—they need strategy and a commitment to connecting directly with students and families.

Shaping the Future of Small Colleges in Liberia

Despite the challenges, my experiences have reinforced my belief in the value of small colleges and their role in driving educational and economic development. Moving forward, I envision small colleges in Liberia playing an even more critical role in preparing students for diverse careers. By expanding our curriculum, incorporating digital learning, and building partnerships with international educational platforms, we can ensure that our students are equipped to succeed both locally and beyond.

To realize this vision, we must continue advocating for policies and resources that support small colleges. We need more funding, better access to technology, and a collective effort to recognize these institutions as essential to Liberia’s progress. I am also developing syllabi and programs for high school and college students that include core computer skills, healthcare basics, and vocational training, all of which are tailored to the demands of today’s job market.

A Call to Change the Narrative

Small colleges and universities in Liberia are not second-tier institutions; they are the backbone of accessible, community-centered education. They offer personalized learning environments, foster strong ties with local industries, and are more adaptable to the immediate needs of their students and communities. Changing the narrative around small colleges means valuing them as dynamic centers for education, capable of producing skilled, employable graduates.

I invite students, educators, and community members to see small colleges for what they truly are: innovative, resilient, and vital to Liberia’s future. As we forge ahead, I am excited to continue working with these institutions, nurturing their growth, and transforming the narrative around them. Small colleges in Liberia may have humble beginnings, but with the right support, they can shape the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.