CAPITOL HILL, Monrovia – The leadership of the House of Representatives has summoned authorities of the state-run University of Liberia (UL) to answer concerns over what lawmakers describe as “very exorbitant” graduation fees being charged to students.
By Emmanuel Weedee-Conway, [email protected]
The decision was taken on Tuesday, during the 13th Day Sitting of the First Quarter of the Third Session, following a communication from Montserrado County Electoral District #12 Representative Jerry Kolubah Yogboh Sr.
In his communication to Plenary, Rep. Yogboh urged lawmakers to intervene amid reports of a significant hike in graduation fees at the state-owned institution. He later took the floor to further expound on the matter, describing the situation as “alarming” in light of mounting complaints from students, parents, and concerned citizens.
According to the lawmaker, the graduation fee has reportedly been set at US$450.00—an amount he argued is excessive for students attending a public university, particularly given prevailing economic hardships.
“These fees are imposing severe financial hardship on graduating students, many of whom have already faced significant economic challenges throughout their academic journey,” Rep. Yogboh stated.
He reminded colleagues of their constitutional oversight responsibility over public institutions.
“Honorable Speaker; Honorable Speaker, fellow colleagues, it is our constitutional responsibility to ensure that public institutions operate in ways that protect the interests of citizens, particularly young people, who represent the future leadership of Liberia,” he said.
Rep. Yogboh emphasized that the University of Liberia was established to provide accessible higher education to Liberians, and warned that any fee structure perceived as burdensome or inconsistent with the country’s socio-economic realities warrants legislative scrutiny.
Following his presentation and brief deliberations, Plenary agreed to invite the President of the University of Liberia, along with her Deputies for Administration and Finance, to appear before House leadership.
The university officials are expected 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 bodies approved the fees, outline measures being taken to ensure affordability and fairness, and address concerns regarding transparency and accountability in the management of university finances.
The UL authorities are scheduled to appear before House leadership on Monday, March 2, 2026, as lawmakers move to exercise their oversight function over the public institution.
The outcome of the engagement is expected to determine whether legislative action will follow regarding the university’s fee policies.
