Liberian Student Arrested On Graduation Day For Failure To Pay 10 US Dollars, Gown Rental Fee.

A high school student in Liberia has become the center of discussion following a controversial arrest during her graduation ceremony. Grace Jlateh, a student at SD School System in Brewerville, was reportedly arrested and handcuffed on her graduation day for failing to pay a US$10 gown rental fee. The incident, which has prompted public outrage, highlights the increased burden of education costs on Liberian families.

According to the Jlateh family, they had already struggled to pay US$125 in graduation fees, a sum that is far above the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) regulation that sets graduation-related expenses at US$100. The family also claim that they were unable to afford the additional US$10 rental fee for Grace’s gown. The school’s principal, Papa Corneh, allegedly ordered Grace’s arrest, resulting in her being taken into custody and imprisoned for the day. The case is currently before the court.

The situation has sparked serious concerns across Liberia, with many calling it an abuse of power and an unjust punishment for a family facing financial difficulties. Public opinion, fueled by social media, has urged both the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Justice to intervene, with demands for accountability and action against what many describe as the mistreatment of an innocent student.

“This is teary and disgraceful. No child should be humiliated like this because of poverty,” said one social media user. Others expressed their disappointment over the skyrocketing education costs in Liberia, where many parents, particularly civil servants earning an average of US$150 a month, find it increasingly difficult to afford school fees and other graduation expenses.

The owner of the SD School System commented on the matter, stating that Grace’s parents “misbehaved,” though further details were not provided. This statement has further deepened the ongoing discussions, with many calling for a thorough investigation to establish the facts.

Liberia has seen a sharp increase in tuition and graduation fees across schools and universities, causing problems for many families. With wages stagnant and inflation on the rise, many parents are still struggling to meet the financial demands of their children’s education.

The case of Grace Jlateh remains under investigation as the court reviews the events that unfolded on September 21. Many are hopeful that justice will be served, and more broader reforms will be implemented to make education more affordable for all Liberians.

Watch the Video here:

Liberian Student Arrested On Her Graduation Day Over Failure To Pay Graduation Fee.

🎥: Martin Kollie pic.twitter.com/n6O6MyIFxd

— Geez Liberia (@geezliberia) September 25, 2024

Source: Martin KN Kollie