Monrovia – In a powerful display of solidarity, the Grand Gedeh University Students Union (GGUSU) condemned the local authority’s failure to release its budgetary allotment for 2024 during a press conference held Friday, May 30. The Union asserts that the withholding of US$30,000 designated for student education poses a significant threat to the academic futures of over 3,000 students of its members across Liberia.
The press conference, attended by various stakeholders, including GGUSU’s veterans, media practitioners, and representatives from member universities, highlighted the urgent need for the local government to reconsider its stance. GGUSU claims that Superintendent Alex C. Grant has failed to fulfill the county development council’s commitment, despite multiple requests for the funds. “Superintendent Grant continues to play hide-and-seek with us,” stated Thomas T. Neah, GGUSU’s president. “His recent comments indicate there are no funds available, forcing us to wait for the 2025 budget.”
This situation is not new for GGUSU. The union recalls that a resolution passed in 2013 mandated an annual allotment of US$50,000 to support struggling students. However, this funding was abruptly halted in 2018, leading to an increase in student dropouts due to financial constraints. “Superintendent Grant’s actions reflect a troubling disregard for the educational aspirations of our youth,” Neah emphasized.
The union’s leadership also addressed accusations regarding their financial transparency. They firmly rebutted claims that they have failed to provide financial reports after their inaugural ceremony, insisting that all reports have been submitted in accordance with their constitution. “We are committed to accountability and will continue to provide our financial reports to the student body,” president Neah assured.
In addition to addressing the budget crisis, GGUSU responded to a recent leadership dispute within the Grand Gedeh University Students Association chapter at the University of Liberia (GGUSA-UL). The union called for unity among students and urged them to refrain from engaging with any unrecognized leadership until the matter is resolved. “We encourage collaboration and transparency as we work toward a solution,” GGUSU’s president stated.
As tensions mount, GGUSU is calling upon local authorities, civil society organizations, and community members to advocate for the immediate release of the budgetary funds. They stress that education is crucial for the development of Grand Gedeh County and the nation as a whole. “Education is the passport to the future,” Neah quoted Malcolm X, urging leaders to prioritize the needs of students.
The press conference concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to hold local leaders accountable for their decisions, emphasizing that the future of Grand Gedeh County depends on the educational opportunities afforded to its youth. As the situation unfolds, GGUSU remains determined to fight for the rights of students and the integrity of their educational institutions. The union’s leadership is hopeful that with collective efforts, the necessary funds will be released, ensuring that no Grand Gedeh County university student is deprived of their right to education.
