Monrovia, Liberia – Students at the State-Run University (UL) voiced concern on Wednesday, January 7, over what they described as “hazardous and disgusting circumstances” on the top public university in the nation. They cautioned that their learning environment poses a serious risk to public health due to constant squalor, uncollected trash, and clogged drainage systems.
Our reporter was told by Capitol Hill college students that areas meant for academic endeavors are now occupied by decaying waste mounds, overflowing trash cans, standing water, and foul odors. Many individuals assert that there is an increasing amount of rubbish near classrooms and walkways, which provides a haven for flies, mosquitoes, and mice.
“We come here to learn, not to get sick. Our health is clearly not a priority. If anything happens to us, who will take responsibility?” said a third-year student from the College of Business and Public Administration.
However, a number of students reported frequent episodes of malaria, skin rashes, and respiratory discomfort, which they attribute to the unhygienic environment. Others pointed out that when it rains, clogged drains overflow pathways with wastewater, requiring students to walk through polluted water in order to attend classes.
“This is a university, not a dumping site. UL represents the future leadership of this country, yet we are being forced to study in conditions that even basic standards of sanitation reject,” another student said.
The students claimed that numerous complaints and appeals had resulted in little to no action, and they accused university administration of being careless. However, they are now urging the Ministry of Education, the UL administration, and pertinent health authorities to step in before the situation worsens and becomes a serious health issue.
If immediate action is not made to clean the campus and set up a sustainable waste management system, several students have also pledged to join other student organizations for potential nonviolent protests. The students alleged that the state of the University of Liberia sends a concerning message about national priorities as Liberia continues to fight avoidable diseases due to inadequate sanitation.
“If the government cannot protect students on its own campus,” one student asked, “how can it protect ordinary citizens?”
Photo credit: DN NEWS
