By: TPA News Desk | editor@thepointafricanews.com

MONROVIA – The Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Liberia National Police (LNP) have jointly announced the immediate and strict enforcement of a regulation banning street parades during school gala day programs, graduation ceremonies, and West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) completion celebrations across all 15 counties. This collaborative directive aims to address long-standing concerns over student safety, public disturbance, and repeated violations of existing regulations.

In a joint press statement released today, Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, Minister of Education, and Hon. Gregory Coleman, Inspector General of the Liberia National Police, underscored that this measure stems from growing concerns over “unsanctioned and chaotic street parades” which, often involving minors, have historically led to preventable injuries and threatened public order. Despite consistent reminders, some schools have continued to organize such unauthorized activities.

The authorities clarified that this directive does not constitute a complete ban on celebratory activities. Instead, schools are strongly encouraged to organize their parades and celebrations in safe, controlled environments. Recommended venues include sports pitches, town halls, stadiums, or other large, open areas. The objective is to ensure that students can commemorate their important milestones without exposure to traffic hazards or disorderly conduct.

The enforcement aligns with provisions under the Liberian Constitution (Article 15), the Penal Law (Sections 17.3 and 17.4), and the Liberia Education Reform Act of 2011, which empower the Government to take necessary actions in the interest of public safety, student protection, and lawful conduct.

As part of the enforcement measures, the Liberia National Police will deploy officers across all 15 counties to monitor and actively prevent street parades associated with these celebratory events. The statement explicitly warns that any school, organization, or group found in violation will be held accountable in accordance with national law and Ministry regulations, facing legal penalties outlined in the Ministry of Education Annual Academic Calendar. Furthermore, the police emphasized that reckless or dangerous behaviors, such as students sitting atop vehicles, dancing on moving cars, or engaging in any conduct that endangers lives, will not be tolerated.

Both the Ministry and the LNP affirmed that the primary intention behind these stringent measures is not to stifle the spirit of celebration but to safeguard the future of the nation’s children and promote a secure learning environment. They called upon all school administrators, parents, and students to cooperate fully, upholding the standards of safety and discipline expected within the educational system. The joint statement concludes with a plea for collective action to uphold law and order while ensuring the protection and well-being of every child.