MONROVIA — Bong County Senator Johnny K. Kpehe, Sr., Chair of the Senate Committee on Youth and Sports, has stressed the need for increased support towards youth development in Liberia.
During the presentation of his 2024 annual committee report at the Senate’s first 2025 session, the senator stressed the need for the empowerment and transformation of young people across the country to be prioritized.
In his report on January 21, 2025, Senator Kpehe commended the Ministry of Youth and Sports for its efforts in youth development, particularly its work with at-risk youth.
He noted that significant strides have made in various programs but highlighted the importance of balancing attention between the ministry’s youth and sports components to ensure holistic progress.
The senator outlined key achievements from 2024, particularly in technical and vocational education training (TVET).
At the Monrovia Vocational Training Center (MVTC), the ministry completed its 13th training cycle, graduating 1,949 trainees in mechanical, building trades, and electrical fields.
Additionally, 65 TVET trainers underwent specialized training in Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and Zambia through European Union sponsorship, while 10 pioneer trainers received local training in TVET pedagogy.
He said doing the course of the year, the Business and Domestic Occupational Center (BDOTC) celebrated the completion of its 18th cycle, training 118 individuals in baking, tailoring, beauty culture, housekeeping, and hairdressing.
The senator also mentioned progress on EU-funded construction projects, including a hospitality center near the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex and a modern training facility for BDOTC, both nearing completion.
He also pointed out that the long-abandoned Youth Agriculture Training Center in Bensonville would undergo renovation, fully funded by the Liberian government.
In youth development, Senator Kpehe reported that 127 at-risk youth, including four children, transitioned from rehabilitation to recovery, while 67 homeless clients were settled in homes with their rent paid for one year.
Additionally, 140 cadets from Montserrado, Grand Bassa, Nimba, and Lofa counties were trained and deployed in public and private institutions to prepare them for employment, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
According to him, each cadet will receive $600 at the end of their three-month placement.
The senator also advocated for the Senate’s support in passing the Liberia Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) Commission Bill, which was approved by the House of Representatives in June 2024.
He emphasized that establishing the commission would strengthen Liberia’s technical education system and address workforce development needs.
Senator Kpehe reiterated the importance of addressing the needs of at-risk youth and urged his colleagues to prioritize youth development in national planning.
He warned that failing to invest in the younger generation could lead to significant societal challenges, stressing the urgency of sustained action.
“Neglecting our youth will jeopardize Liberia’s future. We must act now to ensure their transformation and empowerment,” he stated.
Meanwhile, senator Johnny K. Kpehe,Sr., is appealing to his colleagues and other stakeholders to collaborate in supporting youth-focused initiatives that would contribute to the country’s progress and stability.