The Booker Washington Institute (BWI), located in Kakata, Margibi County, Liberia, is on the verge of transitioning into a full-fledged university, according to its newly appointed president, Dr. Nancy T. Freeman. As the Institute’s chief executive officer for just five months, Dr. Freeman has indicated that negotiations are in the final stages to upgrade BWI into Liberia’s first scientific university. This ambitious plan comes as part of the Institute’s commitment to not only maintain its legacy as a premier technical and vocational institution but also adapt to the growing educational needs of its students. During an assessment tour of the campus on October 28, 2024, Dr. Freeman articulated the vision of elevating BWI from its long-standing status as a technical college to a modern university that would confer degrees alongside vocational skills.
To facilitate this transition, the Institute has embarked on extensive renovations of several dormitories and other facilities that had fallen into disrepair. Key structures being revitalized include Thomas Hall, Tolbert Hall, Graham Hall, and the Boy’s Dormitory, among others. These improvements aim to create a conducive learning environment that reflects the Institute’s ambition of modernization and growth. Dr. Freeman emphasized that the ongoing renovations are part of a concerted effort to breathe new life into the campus, ensuring that it meets the expectations of current and future students who aspire to gain both practical skills and academic qualifications.
The push for BWI’s elevation to a university aligns with the aspirations of many stakeholders, including past students and influential figures within the local community. Attorney Harris Fumba Tarnue, a former principal of BWI, has been vocal in advocating for the institution’s transition to a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) university. These collective calls for upgrading the Institute have resonated with the Ministry of Education and the BWI Alumni Association, who are now actively engaged in negotiations to bring this vision to fruition. This growing support underscores the importance of BWI in nurturing Liberia’s workforce by providing relevant skills and education.
Established in 1929, BWI has a rich history as the first post-secondary agriculture and vocational school in Liberia. Over its 95 years of existence, the Institute has played a crucial role in providing associate degree and diploma programs tailored to the needs of Liberian youth. The potential transition to a university not only reinforces BWI’s historical significance but also positions it to respond effectively to the evolving educational landscape and workforce demands in Liberia. Dr. Freeman’s leadership comes at a pivotal time, as the need for more comprehensive education options becomes increasingly apparent within the country.
Dr. Freeman’s plans for BWI are part of a broader vision to create an educational institution that goes beyond traditional vocational training, enabling students to obtain comprehensive academic qualifications while acquiring practical skills. The integration of degree programs would mark a significant shift for the Institute, allowing for a more diverse range of educational offerings. Through these enhancements, BWI aims to produce graduates who are well-equipped to meet both local and international standards, thereby contributing positively to Liberia’s economic and social development.
As BWI prepares to take this monumental step towards becoming a university, ongoing renovations and strategic partnerships will be key to realizing this vision. The leadership under Dr. Freeman is committed to engaging all relevant stakeholders in the process to ensure successful implementation. With the active participation of alumni, government bodies, and the community, BWI aspires to innovate and expand its educational programs, thus cementing its legacy as a transformative force in Liberia’s educational sphere.
