In a recent appeal to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, prominent Liberian human rights lawyer Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe has called for the elimination of graduation fees across all educational institutions in Liberia. Cllr. Gongloe, who previously ran for the presidency in 2023, emphasized the burdensome nature of these fees, which have led to anxiety and distress among families during graduation seasons. In his letter dated October 24, 2024, he illustrated how these fees negatively impact struggling parents and discourage school enrollment, asserting that the financial burden of graduation fees often overshadows the celebratory spirit that should accompany such achievements.
Cllr. Gongloe’s advocacy centers on the need for fairness and equity in the educational system. He pointed out that the imposition of graduation fees, applied to both private and public institutions from kindergarten through university levels, is unjustifiable. He argues that the financial strain these fees impose on families is not reflective of the celebratory nature of education, suggesting that educational institutions should focus on encouraging student success without imposing additional financial hurdles. His belief is that by eliminating graduation fees, there would be a significant positive impact on the morale of students and their families, thereby fostering a more supportive educational environment.
Delving into Liberia’s economic history, Cllr. Gongloe recalled a time in the 1960s and 1970s when the country was economically prosperous and graduation fees were nonexistent. He highlighted how the nation’s thriving sectors, including mining, logging, and agriculture, created a stable economic environment that supported both families and educational institutions. Many older Liberians reminisce about this era, noting how the robust economy allowed families to celebrate educational milestones without added financial stress. Gongloe’s reflections serve to underscore a contrasting reality where current economic challenges have introduced new burdens, such as graduation fees.
Through discussions with parents and community members, Cllr. Gongloe illustrated the emotional toll that graduation fees take on families. He shared an example of a mother from Paynesville who expressed her distress over the simultaneous graduation of her three children. The financial pressure of meeting the costs for all three graduations made what should have been a joyous occasion instead a source of anxiety. This anecdote reflects a larger trend that Gongloe identified, where families are left feeling unhappy and stressed during a time that should celebrate educational achievements.
In his appeal, Cllr. Gongloe framed the potential elimination of graduation fees as an act of leadership that would bring immense relief to countless Liberians. He urged President Boakai to consider the implications of such a decision, not only for the financial well-being of families but also for the overall health of the education system. By alleviating this financial burden, the government would send a message of support for education and its role in nation-building, which is particularly crucial in a country where many families already face numerous socio-economic challenges.
Cllr. Gongloe’s call for change taps into a broader conversation about accessibility and fairness within the educational landscape of Liberia. By challenging the status quo of imposing graduation fees, he aims to inspire dialogue among policymakers, educators, and citizens about the importance of celebrating educational achievements without the shadow of financial burdens. His letter serves not only as a plea for the elimination of these fees but also as a reminder of the broader responsibility that society has toward its students and the families that support them, advocating for an educational system that fosters growth, inclusion, and celebration of success.
