Monrovia– In a major move aimed at easing the financial burden on students and expanding access to higher education, The Salvation Army Polytechnic University has announced a 50 percent reduction in credit-hour fees across all colleges.
The decision, approved by the University’s Board of Trustees and announced by President Professor Jonathan Minagogo Hart, took effect on May 16, 2026. The reduction is intended to assist students facing economic hardship and limited access to scholarship opportunities in Liberia.
Professor Hart said the initiative aligns with the mission of The Salvation Army worldwide and reflects the institution’s commitment to making tertiary education accessible to vulnerable and underserved populations.
A former street child himself, Professor Hart urged universities across the country to consider reducing tuition costs to create opportunities for disadvantaged young people seeking higher education.
Under the new fee structure, students admitted to the College of Health Sciences will pay US$7.50 per credit hour, down from US$15. Students enrolled in the Colleges of Agriculture, Business, Education, Theology, and Engineering will now pay US$6.00 per credit hour instead of US$12.00.
University authorities believe the tuition reduction will provide an alternative pathway for many young people who have been unable to pursue higher education due to financial constraints, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
The Salvation Army said the initiative represents its contribution to Liberia’s growth and development by helping bridge the gap between underprivileged and privileged members of society through affordable education.
With the revised tuition rates, the institution says it has become the most affordable faith-based university in Liberia.
The university offers both academic and vocational education programs and operates on a three-semester academic calendar each year.
Entrance and placement examinations are administered daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with results available within one hour after completion. Classes for the next academic period are scheduled to resume in July 2026.
Professor Hart, who attained the rank of full professor in January 2025 after assuming the presidency of the university, encouraged prospective students to take advantage of the reduced tuition rates to pursue their degrees and become productive citizens.
He noted that the decision to advocate for lower fees was influenced by the economic challenges facing many Liberian families and his own experience as an orphan and former street child.
Professor Hart recalled benefiting from free accommodation, feeding, and education provided by The Salvation Army during his youth, emphasizing that every child and individual deserves access to affordable, quality education regardless of their background.
