The Government of Liberia Officially Launches National Service Program to Empower Over 5,000 Youth Annually

The Government of Liberia, in a significant stride toward youth and women’s empowerment, has officially launched the National Service Program, a landmark initiative designed to equip more than 5,000 young Liberians and women each year with the skills, opportunities, and experiences needed to build self-reliant futures.

The launching ceremony was held at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex Gymnasium, drawing key government ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), the Ministry of Education, the National Port Authority, the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation, along with youth and student groupings from across the country.
Delivering the keynote address, behalf of the Finance and Development Planning Minister, Augustine Kpehe  Ngafuan, Hon.

Bill McGill Jones, Deputy Minister for Administration at the MFDP, described the launch as “a moment that marks a new beginning for thousands of young Liberians.”
“This is more than a program,” he emphasized. “It is a symbol of the Government of Liberia’s unwavering commitment to youth development, national unity, and sustainable progress. It’s a moment that clearly says: Liberia believes in its young people.”

Minister Jones noted that Liberia stands at a crossroads of opportunity, not crisis, urging young people to remain focused, embrace new possibilities, and work diligently toward their goals.
“The National Service Program is part of the government’s collective response to the call for opportunity, a path forward for those ready to lead, serve, and transform their communities,” he stated.

According to Deputy Minister Jones, the program comprises ten dynamic components designed to engage and empower young Liberians and women across more than ten counties. It aims to strengthen skills, build capacity, and cultivate self-sufficient contributors to national development. He assured the public that the MFDP is fully committed to sustaining the initiative:
“We will work tirelessly to ensure that this program receives the support and resources it needs to thrive for the betterment of Liberia and future generations.”

Also, speaking at the event, Cllr. Jeror Cole Bangalu, Minister of Youth and Sports, hailed the initiative as a milestone in the nation’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.”

Cllr. Bangalu underscored the vital role of young people in nation-building and reaffirmed his ministry’s full support for the program’s implementation and expansion.

Minister Bangalu said the National Service Program offers structured service opportunities through hands-on experience, vocational training, mentorship, and community development projects. Participants will gain practical skills and exposure that prepare them for meaningful employment and entrepreneurship.

The program reflects the Liberian government’s broader commitment to inclusive development, economic empowerment, and long-term national resilience.