Technical training held for the development of curriculum in Environmental Studies

October 8, 2018

This course combines the features of interdisciplinary, environmental literacy, integration of qualitative and quantitative skills.

The University of Liberia convened a 4-day technical session to develop a curriculum for a M.Sc. in Environmental Studies, including Climate Change.

This effort is supported by the National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) project implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme and funded by the Green Climate Fund.

The technical session held in the City of Gbarnga, Bong County, was designed to setup the ground work for the establishment of a graduate degree granting program at the University of Liberia.

The curriculum will provide an integrated design of courses to prepare students to address the social and biophysical complexities of environmental problems facing Liberia as well as to supply the expertise required to support sustainable development in Liberia.

Dr. Ophelia Weeks, President of the University of Liberia noted “This is a significant milestone in our vision to elevate the university amongst the top 20 in Africa within the next 7 years as it places us in a unique position to address the key development challenges facing Liberia at the moment with respect to climate change, waste management and pollution”.

The curriculum will be presented to the Academic Coordination Committee for approval and then submitted to the Faculty Senate of the University of Liberia for concurrence.

This sets the foundation for the launch of the program which will offer graduate degrees in climate change and biodiversity conservation, environmental science and environmental management.

Two months ago, UNDP, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the University of Liberia signed an agreement for support toward the setting up of  this graduate program at the University of Liberia.

The agreement was signed during the launch of the National Policy & Response Strategy on Climate Change.

Along with the required core courses, the program will draw upon the strengths of current curriculum and resources to develop a unique course.

This course combines the features of interdisciplinary, environmental literacy, integration of qualitative and quantitative skills, problem solving in the context of climate change resilience and adaptability.