CAN-U Board Appoints New President, Charts Path Toward Full Accreditation and Reopening

By: Peter Kollie | Lofa Correspondent

Zorzor City, Lofa County |Jan. 4, 2026 | The Board of Trustees of the Change Agent Network University (CAN-U) has held a high-level meeting to address critical institutional matters, including a leadership transition, accreditation status, and plans for the university’s reopening.

Speaking at the meeting, CAN-U Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Eric W. Wowoh, said the primary purpose of the gathering was to formally welcome and present an appointment letter to the newly appointed President of the university, Dr. Eric Forkpah. Dr. Forkpah succeeds Dr. Isaac Podah, who now serves as President of Lofa County University.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders and board members, including Director General of the General Services Agency (GSA), Mr. Galakpai W. Kortimai; Representative Augustine B. Chiewolo of District #5, Lofa County; Dr. Isaac Podah; and other members of the Board of Trustees.

Mr. Wowoh disclosed that CAN-U is preparing to graduate its first batch of students in 2026, describing the milestone as historic for the institution. He noted that the university is currently operating under partial accreditation but expressed confidence that, with strong collaboration and support from the Board, CAN-U will secure full accreditation from the National Commission on Higher Education (NCHE) in the near future.

Discussions during the meeting also focused on plans for the reopening of the university, as well as concerns raised by youths from Zorzor and Salayea Districts regarding tuition fees and speculation about a possible government takeover of the institution.

Addressing these concerns, Mr. Wowoh emphasized that under the leadership of Dr. Forkpah, CAN-U will uphold high academic standards, including a policy that ensures only Master’s degree holders teach Bachelor of Science courses.

Meanwhile, Board Chair Hon. Augustine B. Chiewolo assured stakeholders that nothing would hinder the operations of the university, citing the Board’s commitment and ongoing efforts to meet all requirements set by the NCHE. He reaffirmed the institution’s mission to provide accessible higher education opportunities for students completing high school in and around Zorzor and Salayea Districts.

Hon. Chiewolo also commended CEO Eric W. Wowoh for his initiative and leadership, noting his role in steering the university toward growth, stability, and academic excellence.

The meeting concluded with renewed confidence in CAN-U’s leadership and governance, as well as its commitment to expanding access to quality higher education and contributing to human capital development in the region.