By Perry B. Zordyu
MONROVIA – The Government of Liberia has launched the National Service Program, a flagship initiative aimed at empowering more than 5,000 young people across the country with technical and vocational skills.
The program, which authorities say will ultimately engage over 20,000 youth and women nationwide, was formally unveiled on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Gymnasium in Paynesville.
The launch brought together senior government officials, representatives of key ministries and agencies, as well as youth and student groups from across Liberia.
Speaking on behalf of Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, Deputy Minister for Administration Bill McGill Jones described the program as a “new beginning” for young Liberians.
He said the initiative reflects government’s commitment to youth development, national unity, and sustainable progress, stressing that the challenges facing young people can be transformed into opportunities to shape a better future. “National service is not just about volunteering your time,” Jones said. “Most importantly, national service is about investing your skills, your energy and your passion for the growth of your country. It is about taking ownership of the problems in your community and becoming part of the solutions.”
Addressing the gathering, he urged Liberian youth to embrace their role as change-makers, not just leaders of tomorrow but leaders of today. He emphasized that the program is designed for young people, to be driven by them, and to inspire a renewed sense of purpose, productivity, and national pride.
According to Jones, the National Service Program offers a holistic framework for youth empowerment through activities ranging from vocational training and mentorship to community service, literacy, sanitation campaigns, civic education and entrepreneurship.
He assured that the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning will work to ensure the program receives the necessary support and resources to thrive.
Also speaking at the event, Youth and Sports Minister Cllr. Jeror Cole Bangalu hailed the launch as a milestone in Liberia’s youth development journey. “This program is a game-changer,” he said. “I urge all Liberian youth to seize the opportunity. This is your chance to shape a better tomorrow, for yourself, your family, and your country.”
Bangalu reaffirmed his ministry’s full support for the program, stressing that it provides structured opportunities for hands-on service, vocational training, mentorship and community development. He noted that participants will gain practical skills and exposure to prepare them for meaningful employment and entrepreneurship.
The government views the National Service Program as a cornerstone of its broader agenda to foster self-reliance, create pathways for economic empowerment, and position young people and women as central actors in Liberia’s nation-building process.
