United Methodist University announce strict policy for Graduation Ceremonies
Monrovia, Liberia – The United Methodist University (UMU) has announced a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol at its graduation ceremonies, including convocation and commencement.
Addressing the media in Monrovia on Thursday, March 19, 2026, the Acting President of the United Methodist University, Amb. Cllr. Medina A. Wesseh, stated that on March 31, 2026, the United Methodist University will be awarding degrees in different academic disciplines to those who have spent four years or more on this academic journey, with a total of 611 students graduating on that day.
According to her, during this time of graduation, all students are warned that there will be no alcohol brought to any of the activities, including Baccalaureate or Commencement Convocation. No one will be allowed to sell any alcoholic beverages at the perimeter of either program, cautioning students to adhere to this policy cautioning students to refrain from alcohol around the graduation ceremony.
According to her, these events will take place in churches, and it is not advisable to bring alcohol near these worship centers. Noting that UMU is a private institution, only students who are financially clear will be allowed to graduate. The interim leadership is working with the student leadership to ensure that everyone can graduate on that day.
She emphasized that students who desire to drink alcohol should only do so after the program at the church. No students will be allowed to have any alcohol intake; this is not intended to restrict adults, but alcohol cannot be carried into the church. Noting that this year’s Baccalaureate service speaker will be the Minister of Foreign Affairs, who will be awarded an honorary doctorate degree,Sara Beysolow Nyanti,.for services to the nation, why the keynote Commencement Convocation Speaker is the Executive Director of the Helping Africa Foundation.
The Acting President further stated that the ongoing planned graduation is not stopping the University from processing for the new semester because admissions and registration are currently ongoing for the new year. She noted that UMU is doing everything to build the next generation of leaders.
Reported by: Joseph Sirleaf
