The Joseph Saye Guannu Institute of Peace & Conflict Resolution, a college within Cuttington University, is making substantial strides under the leadership of its new Director, Mr. Sheriff Ishmailla Ayouba Sheriff.
Since assuming office, Mr.Sheriff and his dedicated staff have implemented a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing academic activities, fostering a vibrant learning environment, and strengthening the institute’s mission of developing young minds with the academic requirement of promoting peace and conflict resolution beyond boundries.
He has focused on adhering to the curricula that emphasizes real-world applications of peacebuilding principles. These advancements include workshops, seminars, and community engagement projects that provide students with practical experience in conflict resolution and mediation. The introduction of guest lectures from renowned scholars and practitioners further enriches the educational experience, allowing students to learn from experts in the field.
“We are committed to transforming the Joseph Saye Guannu Institute into a leading center for peace studies not only in Liberia, but in West Africa.” Mr. Sheriff stated in a recent interview. “By equipping our students with the necessary skills and knowledge, we aim to prepare them for impactful roles in their communities and the larger society.”
In addition to academic enhancements, the college is also contemplating on improving its infrastructure. Plans are underway to upgrade classroom facilities to better support students’ learning needs. Director Sheriff is exploring partnerships with organizations in Liberia to secure funding and technical assistance for these initiatives.
However, despite these positive developments, the institute faces significant challenges. Limited resources and funding constraints pose obstacles to fully realizing its vision. Additionally, attracting and retaining qualified faculty members, who are crucial to maintaining academic standards, remains a challenge. Mr. Sheriff acknowledges that while progress is being made, the road ahead requires resilience and the overall support of Cuttington University.
“We are grateful for the foundation laid by our predecessors and are determined to build upon it,” he said. “But we cannot do it alone. We urge the Administration of our dearest Cuttington and stakeholders of Bong County to join us in this journey toward peace education and conflict resolution.”
As the academic year progresses, the Joseph Saye Guannu Institute of Peace & Conflict Resolution stands poised to make a lasting impact on its students and the broader community. With the leadership of Mr. Sheriff and the collective effort of the staff and supporters, the institute is on a promising path, navigating challenges while striving to fulfill its mission in promoting peace and harmony.
Mr. Sheriff’s Achievements
Secured a partnership with Western University that will see us collectively work on a three year project, titled “Commemorating the Experiences For Collective Healing of Conflict Related Sexual Violence (CRSV) with the peace Institute playing a vital role. This Partnership will also give the peace institute a much needed exposure and will also afford our students the opportunity to learn, grow, and become better in their field as peace and development practitioners.
Coordinated our diversification Strategy in pursuing a recruitment of students from all backgrounds into the peace college.
Attracted additional students who will be joining the peace institute in the forthcoming semester by launching a Jehovah witness campaign along with my team.
Strengthen and laid a solid foundation for a partnership with the Kofi Annan Institute for peace and conflict transformation in the areas of research and resource sharing.
Poised to become a key player in the Rev. William R. Tolbert the 3rd Chair for peace Building, Mediation, Conflict Resolution, Reconciliation and National Unity.
Made further gains in elevating our chances of enjoying a friendly relationship with the peace building office, under the ministry of internal Affairs.
Challenges
Even with the installation of JEP meter at the peace institute, we still do not have electricity
The institute is starved of the service of a full time Administrative Assistant/Secretary
Lack of Printer/photocopier
The limited and late supply of stationary materials
A section of the Director’s office is experiencing leakage and this creates a terrible atmosphere, especially during the raining season.
Recommendation
The power team here, at Cuttington University, needs to assess our entire circuit system and correct the problem that is preventing the institute from accessing electricity.
Recruitment of a full-time administrative assistance must be prioritized as a matter of urgency
Administration must provide the institute with a printer/photocopier to ease our work and to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
Renovation of a fallen hardboard in our classroom and the leaking roof in the office of the Director must be given serious consideration
