By Patrick Stephen Tokpah
/BONG
The Liberia Opportunities Industrialization Center (LOIC) Gbarnga Satellite has graduated 142 students from its skills training programs in Gbarnga, Bong County.
Liberia Opportunities Industrialization Center (LOIC) is the largest indigenous non-governmental skill training organization in Liberia and has operated since 1977 providing basic skills training and support services to the youth of Liberia.
Rachael Paye, the Manager of the LOIC Gbarnga Satellite, stated that those who graduated were taught in general construction, auto mechanics, cosmetology, home economics, and computer science, among others.
The Liberia Opportunities Industrialization Center Gbarnga Site Manager said 46 students graduated from General Construction, Electricity 54, Home Economics 10, Computer 4, Cosmetology 10, and Auto Mechanics 18.
Madam Paye emphasized that out of the 142 students, 89 are males and 53 are females.
She said many students came from challenging backgrounds but have managed to achieve self-reliance and even supported their families through the skills they acquired at LOIC.
Moreover, she explained that LOIC is an entity that provides skills to help individuals reach their full potential.
Madam Paye disclosed that those students who were conferred or awarded certificates by LOIC in distinct vocational disciplines are students who have been academically examined and have satisfactorily gone through the ranks and files of the Liberia Opportunities Industrialization Center academic or vocational curricular activities in line with best international vocational standards and practices.
She further noted that as part of LOIC’s mission to produce more qualified and knowledgeable Liberia professionals in different specialized vocational studies, the institution remains committed to providing quality educational services through skills training and fostering a 21st Global Century of Vocational Education in Liberia.
“I encourage all of you to go out and use the skills you’ve acquired to make a meaningful impact in your various communities,” Madam Paye said. “This graduation should not be the end, but the beginning of your journey toward personal growth and national development.”
The LOIC Gbarnga Site Manager, at the same time, used the Cycle 25 graduation to extend her gratitude to partners and the Administration of Bong County, headed by Superintendent Hawa Loleyah Norris, for their continued support to the institution.
She further commended the graduates for their dedication and successful completion of their studies.
Meanwhile, Charles Kelleh, Chief of Office Staff in the Offices of Senator Prince Kermue Moye, praised LOIC for its longstanding role in youth empowerment, stating, “Since its formation, LOIC has played a vital role in transforming the lives of young people and helping them become productive members of society.
Mr. Kelleh, who served as a keynote speaker, stressed that for a post-war country like Liberia to thrive, it must prioritize investment in industrial and vocational training.”
He further called on the government of President Joseph Boakai and Jeremiah Kpan Koung to support vocational institutions, something he believes will enhance more young people to benefit from quality technical education.
The Bong County Senator’s Chief of Office Staff, who delivered his keynote address under the theme “Preparing for the Exciting Times Ahead,” pledged L$100,000 on behalf of Senator Moye to help buttress the efforts of the administration in their ongoing projects at the entity.
He used the occasion to urge the graduates to serve as change-makers in their communities and use their newly acquired skills to create opportunities and inspire others.
“LOIC continues to be a cornerstone in Liberia’s efforts to tackle youth unemployment and promote inclusive, sustainable development through vocational education and training,” he added.
The ceremony was held over the weekend in Gbarnga, Bong County, with several residents in attendance.
