By Patrick Stephen Tokpah
-BONG
The Program Manager of the Liberia Opportunity Industrialization Center (LOIC) Gbarnga Site, Rachael Paye, is encouraging young people of Bong County to take advantage of the center’s vocational training programs.
Madam Paye said since the establishment of the institution in Bong County in 1997, LOIC has trained numerous young people in various skills, from carpentry and plumbing to auto mechanics and cosmetology, among others.
She said many students come from challenging backgrounds but have managed to achieve self-reliance and even support their families through the skills they acquired at LOIC.
Due to growing demands, Madam Paye disclosed that LOIC is now considering adding afternoon sessions to accommodate more students.
The center currently offers courses in general construction, electricity, auto mechanics, cosmetology, computer science and home economics (including baking, sewing, and tie-dye).
Madam Paye used the opportunity to express appreciation to Bong County authorities for their financial support, which LOIC used to renovate facilities and expand its computer lab with additional desktop computers and projectors.
During the 2024 County Council sitting, the Council allocated US $10,000 to the Liberia Opportunities Industrialization Center (LOIC) as a means of support for local initiatives and infrastructure, which includes youth training.
Stressing the need for vocational training opportunities in rural areas, Madam Paye urged the national government to provide more funding to expand LOIC’s activities beyond Gbarnga.
Madam Paye made the statement at the opening ceremony of the ongoing partnership engagement with Voice of Mama Africa (VOMA) Energy Incorporated, one of the leading renewable energy companies in Liberia, to train over 150 Bongese in solar installation.
Rachael Paye, expressed her gratitude for the partnership with VOMA Energy and stressed the importance of renewable energy in promoting economic growth and sustainable development in Liberia.
“We are pleased to partner with VOMA Energy to empower the people of Bong County with skills in solar installation. This is a great opportunity for young people to acquire new skills and create opportunities for themselves and their communities,” she said.
The training, which is taking place in Gbarnga, aims to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to become certified solar installers.
VOMA is a Liberian-owned company situated in an ideal position, mirroring the actual energy needs of Liberia’s average low-income households and small businesses.
The Executive Director of VOMA Energy, Benedict Sartee, said the initiative is part of VOMA Energy’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and providing affordable, clean energy solutions to communities in Liberia.
According to the Managing Director of VOMA Energy, the partnership with LOIC is a part of their vision to empower local communities and create job opportunities for young people in the renewable energy sector.
“We are excited to partner with LOIC to provide training in solar installation to the people of Bong County. This training will not only provide opportunities for employment but also contribute to the development of the county and the country as a whole,” he said.
The training is being conducted by qualified solar experts and will include both theoretical and practical components.
Upon completion, participants will receive certification from VOMA Energy and LOIC, which will enable them to start their own solar installation businesses or work with established companies in the sector.