GOL Bans Street Parades

Friday, June 20, 2025

The Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Liberia National Police (LNP) jointly inform the general public, school administrators, students, and parents that effective immediately, strict enforcement of the regulation banning street parades during school gala day programs is underway across all counties. This collaborative effort stems from growing concerns over student safety, public disturbance, and repeated violations of the Ministry’s clearly outlined directive in the 2024/2025 Academic Calendar. Over the years, unsanctioned and chaotic street parades—often involving minors—have led to preventable injuries and threatened public order. Despite consistent reminders, some schools continue to organize such unauthorized activities.

To clarify, this is not a complete ban on celebratory activities. Schools are encouraged to organize parades and celebrations in safe, controlled environments such as sports pitches, town halls, stadiums, or other large open areas. These venues help ensure that students can mark important milestones without exposure to traffic hazards or disorderly conduct. In accordance with provisions under the Liberian Constitution (Article 15), the Penal Law (Sections 17.3 and 17.4), and the Liberia Education Reform Act of 2011, which empower the Government to take necessary actions in the interest of public safety, student protection, and lawful conduct, the following measures shall be strictly enforced:

The Liberia National Police will deploy officers to monitor and prevent street parades associated with gala day celebrations in all 15 counties. 

Any school, organization, or group found in violation will be held accountable in accordance with national law and Ministry regulations, subject to legal penalties outlined in the Ministry of Education Annual Academic Calendar.

Effective immediately, graduation and WASSCE completion celebrations will also be monitored and regulated by the LNP. 

The police will not tolerate reckless or dangerous behaviors, including students sitting atop vehicles, dancing on moving cars, or engaging in conduct that endangers lives. 

The Ministry and the LNP emphasize that these measures are not intended to stifle celebration but to ensure that students can mark academic milestones in a safe, respectful, and organized manner.

We call on all school administrators, parents, and students to cooperate fully and uphold the standards of safety and discipline expected within the education system. Our priority remains the protection of every child and the promotion of a secure learning environment for all. Let us work together to uphold law and order while safeguarding the future of our nation our children.