The House of Representatives has summoned the University of Liberia to explain the excessive graduation fees imposed on students, an issue that has raised significant concerns from District #12 Representative Jerry Yorboh.
This decision was made during the plenary session on Tuesday, following a communication from the lawmaker requesting for appearance of the President and Senior Administration of the University of Liberia Regarding Graduation Fees. Representative Yogboh highlighted the increasing complaints from students, parents, and concerned citizens regarding what he characterized as excessively high graduation fees required for participation in commencement ceremonies.
The lawmaker noted that these fees impose significant financial burdens on graduating students, many of whom have already encountered considerable economic challenges throughout their academic pursuits. He said the University of Liberia, as a public institution, was established to provide accessible higher education to Liberians. Consequently, any fee structure that appears to be burdensome or misaligned with the socio-economic realities of the country necessitates legislative oversight and clarification.
Representative Yogboh further emphasized that the nation is currently facing economic difficulties, resulting in many students struggling to pay their fees under these harsh conditions, which has led to widespread dissatisfaction among graduates. In light of these concerns, Plenary has resolved to invite the President of the University of Liberia, along with her deputies responsible for Administration and Finance, to appear before the House leadership to: Provide a detailed breakdown and justification of the current graduation fees; Explain the legal and administrative basis for the fee structure; Clarify whether the Board of Trustees and relevant oversight authorities approved the fees; Present measures being implemented to ensure affordability and fairness for students; and Address concerns regarding transparency and accountability in the management of university finances.
Representative Yogboh reminded his colleagues that, as lawmakers and representatives of the populace, it is their constitutional duty to ensure that public institutions operate in a manner that safeguards the interests of citizens, particularly the youth, who represent the future leadership of Liberia.
