The Ministry of Education (MOE), in collaboration with the Liberia National Police (LNP), has announced an immediate ban on all street parades associated with school gala day celebrations across the country.
The decision was disclosed during a joint press conference held in Monrovia on Tuesday evening by Education Minister Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah and Inspector General of Police, Col. Gregory O. W. Coleman.
Minister Jallah explained that the measure is intended to protect students from potential harm and reduce public disturbances linked to unsupervised street parades. She emphasized that while celebratory events are not being completely prohibited, they must be organized in a safe and controlled environment.
“This is not a complete ban on gala day activities,” Minister Jallah clarified. “We are simply asking that schools host parades and other celebrations in safer venues such as sports pitches, town halls, stadiums, or other open spaces where students can be protected.”
She warned that schools, organizations, or groups that violate the directive risk facing fines and other disciplinary actions.
The mandate also prohibits students from hanging or standing on moving vehicles while celebrating their success.
For his part, Police IG Coleman echoed the Minister’s remarks, citing traffic congestion and safety concerns as key reasons for the ban. He assured the public that the LNP is committed to fully enforcing the order and urged all citizens to cooperate.
The joint mandate from the MOE and LNP takes immediate effect.
