S. KOREA – Liberia’s Labor Minister Charles Gibson addressed the issue of unemployment as the main obstacle affecting the living conditions of school-going youths and young adults in the post-conflict nation. Speaking at the 11th World Ministers’ Forum in Seoul, South Korea, under the theme “Enhancing Youth Empowerment,” Minister Gibson highlighted the challenges young people face in providing for themselves and their families due to the lack of job opportunities.
By Obediah Johnson
He stressed that unemployment often forces young adults to assume responsibilities beyond their age, such as supporting their families financially, even before they have become parents themselves. While it is the responsibility of parents to care for their children, the lack of employment opportunities makes it difficult for them to fulfill these obligations.
To address this issue, Minister Gibson informed the audience that the Liberian government, through the Ministry of Labor, is taking steps to create employment opportunities and promote vocational skill training programs. By investing in technical and vocational education, the government aims to equip young people with the necessary skills to succeed in the job market.
Minister Gibson emphasized that the high rate of youth unemployment is often linked to the absence of technical and vocational skills among job seekers. Many young adults have completed only primary or secondary education without any vocational training, making them less competitive in the job market. To counter this, the government is providing opportunities for these individuals to acquire skills at established vocational and technical schools.
He highlighted that stabilizing society and reducing violence and lawlessness require providing young people with opportunities for self-employment or employable skills. Minister Gibson urged school-going youths and young adults to manage their anger and frustrations arising from the lack of job opportunities, emphasizing that unchecked anger could lead to violence, drug abuse, and other harmful behaviors.
In conclusion, Minister Gibson expressed gratitude to the organizers for inviting him to the forum and reiterated the Liberian government’s commitment to support the youth in their personal development and contribution to the country’s growth and progress.
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