NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – The civil society movement STAND has strongly condemned a reported decision by the administration of the University of Liberia (UL) to increase registration fees to LD$10,000, describing the move as harsh and insensitive amid worsening economic conditions in the country.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
According to a statement attributed to the group, the decision—reportedly announced on Lux FM—comes at a time when Liberians are grappling with rising taxes, soaring transportation costs, and continuous increases in the prices of food, basic commodities, and essential services.
STAND argued that the proposed fee hike would place an unbearable burden on already struggling students and parents, many of whom are facing declining incomes and limited job opportunities.
“At a time when taxes are rising without mercy, transportation fares are skyrocketing, and the prices of food, basic commodities, and essential social services continue climbing daily, adding more pressure on poor students and suffering parents is wicked, heartless, and unacceptable,” the group stated.
The civil society organization further described the proposed LD$10,000 registration fee as an “economic war” against students and low-income families, warning that it could push many young people out of higher education.
STAND also urged the government to intervene by subsidizing the University of Liberia, arguing that public education should remain accessible to all citizens regardless of economic status. It questioned the need for increased financial pressure on students while other public expenditures continue, including plans for new currency circulation.
Instead of what it termed “punishing poor students,” STAND said the government should absorb the university’s operational costs to prevent disruptions in academic access.
“Education must not become a privilege for the wealthy while ordinary Liberian children are pushed out of the classroom by poverty and bad governance,” the statement emphasized.
