August 17,2026
ZWEDRU, GRAND GEDEH COUNTY — Serious questions are being raised over the implementation of Liberia’s free and compulsory basic education policy following the emergence of a receipt reportedly showing a L$1,000 payment labeled “M.O.E. Registration Fees” for a Grade 4 student at J.C. Berlee Elementary School in Zwedru.
The reported charge has sparked concerns among parents and members of the public, particularly because Liberia’s education policy provides for free basic education at the primary level.
If Grade 1–6 education is genuinely free, why are parents reportedly being asked to pay registration fees?The issue goes beyond one school or one receipt. It raises broader concerns about whether the Ministry of Education’s free-education policy is being properly enforced at the school level.
The Ministry of Education must move swiftly to verify the authenticity and purpose of the reported L$1,000 charge, determine whether the fee was officially authorized, and take appropriate action if schools or individuals are imposing unauthorized charges on parents.
Free education cannot remain a policy on paper while parents continue to face financial demands that could discourage vulnerable families from sending their children to school.
The government must ensure that its free-education policy is implemented consistently, transparently and without hidden charges, particularly for families already struggling to meet basic household needs.
The Ministry of Education owes parents and the public clear answers: Who authorized the fee, where is the money going, and why is a Grade 4 student being charged for “M.O.E. Registration”?
Until these questions are answered, the reported charge will continue to fuel concerns that “free education” may be turning into fees in disguis
Credit: Jallah tv
