The government, through the Ministry of Education (MoE), in partnership with the Liberia National Police (LNP), has banned student’s street parades nationwide during school gala day programs, graduation ceremonies, and West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) celebrations across all 15 counties.
The joint directive on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, was also aimed at addressing student injuries doing street parades, disorderly behavior, and the repeated disregard for prior warnings and the Ministry’s established guidelines as outlined in the 2024/2025 Academic Calendar.
These events frequently result in heavy traffic congestion, as blocked roads and intersections cause significant delays and public frustration.
It also creates public disturbances, with loud music and chaotic behavior disrupting the peace in communities. During WASSCE celebrations, students riding on trucks or motorbikes often without proper safety gear face a high risk of falling and suffering severe injuries or even death. Additionally, overcrowded vehicles that speed or swerve recklessly pose a serious danger, potentially crashing into pedestrians or other vehicles.
Worse still, some use the celebration as an excuse to consume alcohol or illegal drugs, leading to disorderly and dangerous behavior. There have even been reports of students passing out or being arrested during these events.
Based on the Liberian Constitution (Article 15), the Penal Law (Sections 17.3 and 17.4), and the Liberia Education Reform Act of 2011, the Government is legally empowered to take actions that ensure public safety, protect students, and uphold lawful behavior. Based on these provisions, the ban on student street parades during gala celebrations, graduations, and WASSCE events is fully backed by law.
The decision reflects a lawful response to the growing risks of traffic accidents, injuries, and public disturbances caused by these parades. Authorities have emphasized that while the right to celebrate is respected, it must not come at the expense of safety or public order.
Minister of Education, Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, clarified that student celebrations are not banned outright but must take place in safe, controlled environments such as sports fields, town halls, and stadiums. She emphasized that the directive is not aimed at stopping joyful events but at ensuring the safety and protection of students.
Dr. Jallah issued a stern warning to schools, students, and event organizers, stating that violators will face penalties in accordance with national laws and the Ministry’s regulations. She further disclosed that the Liberia National Police will be actively deployed to monitor and shut down any unauthorized street parades or related activities.
The Minister called on parents, teachers, and school administrators to fully cooperate with the directive. She also urged the general public to support efforts that promote discipline, order, and the well-being of students.
“This action is legally backed by the Liberian Constitution, the Penal Code, and the Education Reform Act,” she stated. “The Ministry and the Police are acting within their lawful authority in the interest of public safety.”
Speaking during the joint initiative with the Ministry of Education, Inspector General of the Liberia National Police (LNP), Hon. Gregory Coleman emphasized that the safety of children remains the LNP’s top priority.
“We continue to support the advancement of our country in every regard, and the safety of our children is our primary concern,” he stated. “This initiative is long overdue, but I believe the time is right to activate it.”
He reflected on a tragic incident that occurred less than two years ago on the Monrovia-Kakata Highway, where students were exposed to oncoming traffic during a school parade, resulting in multiple injuries and loss of life.
“Over the years, we’ve seen the reckless behavior of adults endanger the lives of children. In that fatal accident, we witnessed the consequences of allowing unregulated celebrations. Despite our efforts to accommodate schools and event organizers, many have failed to adhere to safety guidelines.”
According to the Police Chief, much of the danger stems not just from student activities but also from adults celebrating graduations in ways that risk lives. “Beyond school parades, we’re concerned about how adults celebrate academic achievements—often recklessly. We are standing up to provide the necessary protection and ensure these celebrations are conducted safely.”
IG Coleman disclosed that the Liberia National Police is working closely with the Ministry of Education to enforce new regulations aimed at safeguarding students during such events. He clarified that the measures are not intended to restrict movement or limit celebrations.
“These regulations are not to hinder anyone’s celebration but to ensure everything is done in a safe and responsible manner.”
He commended a model school that, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, has set an example for safe community engagement and called on others to follow suit.
“The Ministry has identified an exemplary model school whose practices can be emulated across the country. This is the standard we hope others will follow,” he remarked.
In conclusion, IG Coleman issued a powerful reminder about the importance of prioritizing child safety. “If we cannot safeguard the future by protecting our children, then we’re simply wasting time preparing for a future that may never come.”
He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Education and all collaborating government agencies for their partnership and reaffirmed the LNP’s continued support.
“We are proud to stand with the Ministry of Education and other partners in this effort. Together, we will uphold the safety and well-being of our children.”
