NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – The Agricultural and Industrial Training Bureau (AITB) has disclosed a significant shortage of qualified instructors in Liberia’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector, with a gap estimated at 43 percent across key trade programmes.
The disclosure was made by Hon. Wesley D. M. Nyenatoh Sr., Deputy Director General for Technical Services, who spoke on behalf of the AITB Director General at the graduation of instructors trained under the European Institute for Cooperation and Development (IECD) Liberia.
By: Sampson W. Weah – sampsonwweah7@gmail.com
Mr Nyenatoh said findings from a recent gap analysis and compliance monitoring exercise show that many institutions are operating with limited instructional capacity. In several instances, instructors are teaching subjects outside their areas of formal training.
He warned that the situation is undermining the quality of training and weakening confidence in TVET graduates.
“When the quality of instruction declines, employers begin to question the competence of graduates,” he said. “That has real consequences for job opportunities.”
He noted that the shortage of qualified instructors is one of the factors contributing to employers’ reluctance to fully recognise TVET certifications.
At the same time, Mr Nyenatoh described the intervention of IECD Liberia as critical, particularly in addressing gaps in instructor training and improving standards across the sector.
He praised the institution for its continued support to skills development in Liberia, stressing that a strong TVET system depends largely on capable and well-trained instructors.
Addressing the graduates, he urged them to take their roles seriously, both as skilled professionals and as trainers responsible for shaping the next generation of workers.
“You are not only expected to know your trade, but to teach it effectively,” he said. “The future of the workforce depends on what you pass on.”
He reaffirmed AITB’s commitment to improving instructor standards, strengthening certification systems, and expanding training opportunities, while maintaining partnerships that ensure training remains aligned with industry needs.
Despite the challenges, Mr Nyenatoh expressed confidence that, with sustained collaboration, Liberia’s TVET sector can regain credibility and better serve the job market.
