Monrovia, Liberia – On Tuesday, the 14th graduation ceremony of the Monrovia Vocational Training Center (MVTC) was interrupted by several irate graduates, turning what should have been a day of happiness and celebration into a chaotic event.
The event took place when graduates publicly expressed their displeasure with the school’s management in a theatrical protest following the march and ceremonial opening. Some students who spoke to our reporter during the disturbance accused officials for inadequate program organization, poor management, and a lack of openness.
As the graduates screamed out statements from administrators and invited guests, the ceremony, which was conducted at the institution’s compound in Paynesville, came to a halt, according to our correspondent on the scene.
“We weren’t given what the administration had promised and shown us.” The irate grads claimed that the administration had misled us.
“The next school year will not resume if we do not receive the packages that we paid for,” the graduates stated.
Some of the graduates also angrily left the program by walking out.
One irate graduate told reporters, “The administration has failed us, but this day should have been about us and our accomplishment.”
“The system’s indifference has left us with no real hope and without the credentials and resources we need to move forward.”
While security and a few school members attempted in vain to restore order, the disturbance left many parents and well-wishers unhappy.
Although MVTC authorities are yet to formally addressed the accusations, sources claim that an emergency meeting is being called to discuss the situation.
Concerns over responsibility and the future of thousands of young people who rely on technical and vocational institutions for empowerment have been raised by the unusual demonstration, which has spurred public discussion about Liberia’s vocational education system.
Over 1,293 Liberians were expected to graduate from the Monrovia Vocational Training Center with certificates in various disciplines.
Reported by: Prince Saah
