The Civil Service Agency (CSA) has issued a stern warning to faculty members of public universities and colleges across Liberia against any planned disruption of learning activities, urging them to remain calm and committed to their professional duties. In a circular dated September 26, 2025, CSA Director-General, Dr. Josiah F. Joekai, Jr., disclosed that reports have surfaced suggesting that some faculty members are preparing to stage a nationwide “go-slow. ” While the reasons for the planned industrial action remain unclear, the CSA described the move as “counterproductive” and cautioned educators to desist from abandoning their academic responsibilities. Dr. Joekai reminded faculty that as civil servants, they are bound by the CSA Human Resource Policy Manual and the Standing Orders for the Civil Service.
He encouraged any aggrieved staff to seek redress through the established grievance mechanisms, stressing that the government has functional channels in place for addressing complaints lawfully and professionally. The circular further warned that any instructor or professor who abandons duty or deliberately fails to perform assigned responsibilities will face administrative measures in line with civil service regulations. “Your full cooperation in ensuring the continuity of academic activities across all public universities and colleges is both expected and appreciated,” the CSA emphasized. The warning comes amid growing tensions in the higher education sector, as the Rural Universities and Colleges Faculty Association of Liberia (RUCFAL) has threatened an indefinite strike. RUCFAL which represents faculty across nine rural institutions, has accused the government of persistent neglect and failure to address longstanding concerns over salaries and benefits.
The Association, comprising staff from Bomi County Community College, Bong County Technical College, Grand Bassa University, Grand Gedeh University College, Grand Kru Community College, Lofa County University, Margibi University, Nimba University, and Sinoe County Community College, alleged that it has exhausted all options of dialogue. Since February 12, 2025, RUCFAL also alleged it has petitioned President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Sr and the Legislature and other senior officials, but without any concrete action taken. Their demands include the harmonization of salaries and benefits with those of the University of Liberia and Tubman University, provision of relocation and research allowances, and the passage of a pending bill for standardized salaries and benefits across all public institutions of higher learning.
In a statement released recently, RUCFAL expressed deep disappointment at what it described as the government’s silence and inaction. “After months of peaceful engagement and media publications, RUCFAL has no option but to proceed with its planned indefinite industrial strike action,” the association declared. “We have been patient, responsible, and peaceful in our approach. Yet, the silence and inaction of the government leave us with no alternative.” The association added that during the strike, faculty members will not be permitted to enter campuses or engage in any academic activities. Framing the action as a struggle for fairness, equity, and justice, RUCFAL called on the Liberian public to stand in solidarity with its quest for dignity in the higher education sector. The looming standoff between the CSA’s directives and RUCFAL’s strike threat now poses a critical test for Liberia’s higher education system, with the potential to disrupt thousands of students’ academic pursuits if unresolved.
Author: Zac T. Sherman
