The late J. W. Harris was one of the pioneers of education in Jedepo, Sinoe County-Liberia, who sought education as a means of eradicating poverty and encouraging self- sustainability in the mid 1920’s. He gained his primary education in the coastal town of King William (now in Grand Kru County) and returned to his homeTown, Nyen-na-wli-ken, Jedepo, North-Eastern Sinoe County where he was seen as a light in the darkness, and served as a clerk to the Commissioner of Kpanyan District.
In his bid to raise himself from poverty and support his family for a better life, he became a petty businessman and also raised cattle. He did not realize his dream of raising himself from poverty due to insufficient capital and family responsibilities; nevertheless, he was able to ensure that his children exceeded his level of education to carry on his legacy.
In furtherance of J. W. Harris’s dream, and in his honor, his son, Mr. Amos P. Wisseh and & Mrs. Victoria Wisseh, his daughter in-law, established a computer school and named it J. W. Harris Memorial in 2004.
Based on the overwhelming interest and enthusiasm expressed by community members coupled with desire to buttress the government’s effort in mitigating the challenges of educating the children of Liberia, Mr. & Mrs. Wisseh established a junior high school and incorporated the computer school. The academic activities began in 2008/2009 with only fifteen students. The school was later raised to a high school level to meet the growing demands in the community and it is making the difference by graduating disciplined students with international academic standards. The J. W. Harris University is an outgrowth of the same dream.
The Wisseh family is the principal supporter of the institution with funding from their previous business establishments. In addition, the institution also gets funding from tuition and fees paid by the beneficiaries.
J.W. Harris University has met all the standards and requirements of the National Commission on Higher Education (NCHE) to operate a University in Liberia. Subsequently, NCHE granted a License to J.W. Harris University in December 2023, to operate within the Republic of Liberia as a University. J. W. Harris University was established in 2022. Training and academic activities began on September 2, 2024. This institution is located in Banjor, Virginia, Montserrado County, Liberia.
It is of utmost importance that all recognize that JW Harris University is a private institution. It has its own structure of governance, mode of operation and delivery of skills and knowledge which are not contrary to the laws of the state or to the policies of the National Commission on Higher Education or in training institutions throughout the world.
OF RECENT GRADUATES STARTED NEW JOB
YEARS OF GLORIOUS HISTORY
PROGRAMS AVAILABLE FOR THE STUDENTS
CAMPUS ALL OVER THE WORLD
At J.W Harris University, our mission is to cultivate a community of lifelong learners who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. We strive to develop critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership in every student, which helps us to prepare them to make meaningful contributions to society.
We envision a future where education is not just about acquiring information, but about igniting curiosity, inspiring innovation, and fostering a deep sense of responsibility towards the global community. Our vision is to be a beacon of educational excellence, recognized nationally and internationally for our commitment to academic rigor and holistic development.
Come, visit our premises, explore the quality of education and all-round development we provide, and learn how we shape your future.
The principal mission of J.W. Harris University is to fulfill the supreme interest of quality academics, in order to serve Liberians and non-Liberians, especially young people throughout the length and breadth of the Republic of Liberia; develop manpower for gainful employment, and enhance socio-economic growth and development of the nation, Liberia.
Additionally, J W. Harris University will continue to develop the skilled professional individuals who want to gain experience knowledge in various disciplines
The Office of the Dean of Student Services is strong minded to ensuring that the following guiding principles and core values are complied with, and achieved in order to promote its aims and aspirations:
Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. – Nelson Mandela
