To significantly enhance youth empowerment, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Jeror Cole Banggalu, has declared a fund of $1 million aimed at relaunching the National Youth Service Program (NYSP).
At the unveiling of the 2025 National Cadet Program backed by UNDP over the weekend, Minister Bangalu highlighted the government’s dedication to the Cadet Initiative, declaring, “This program is a priority for us and we will work closely with UNDP Liberia to guarantee its effective execution.”
He emphasized the achievements of former cadets, numerous individuals who have attained lasting positions within the government after completing their internships. The Youth and Sports Minister discussed plans to broaden the initiative and conveyed appreciation to UNDP for their collaboration.
"Enhancing the well-being of young individuals is essential, thus improving the lives of our citizens, particularly their younger members, falls upon us as a duty," stated Minister Bangalu.
Louis Kuukpen, the Deputy Resident Representative for programs at UNDP Liberia, praised the government’s continuous initiatives in fostering youth development, stating that allocating resources to young people is essentially nurturing Liberia's upcoming generations.
At UNDP, we firmly believe that supporting youth means investing in our future. These young individuals aren’t just future leaders—they’re making changes right now. However, throughout Africa and specifically within Liberia, high rates of youth unemployment continue to be a significant issue. Initiatives such as the NCP play a crucial role in addressing this problem by providing young people with valuable skills, real-world experience, and the self-assurance needed to secure meaningful careers,” emphasized Kuuken.
He stated that the cadet program serves as a springboard for careers, innovation, and entrepreneurship rather than being just a temporary position.
Kuukpen encouraged cadets entering recruitment this year to fully utilize the chance to learn, develop, make contributions, and aspire ambitiously.
On behalf of the Commerce Minister, Kolubah Yekeh highlighted the significance of the initiative, urging other stakeholders to provide greater assistance over the coming five years.
The National Youth Cadet Program is designed to offer temporary jobs and internships within various government departments, offices, and businesses, emphasizing improved employability skills and hands-on experience.
In the year 2025, this program aims to choose 150 outstanding alumni from various educational institutions such as colleges and trade schools located across multiple counties, specifically Montserrado, Grand Bassa, Nimba, Lofa, and Grand Cape Mount.
The recipients will get a monthly allowance of $200 during their three-month internships, assisting them in acquiring crucial work-related abilities while also meeting their living costs.
Since its launch, the Cadet Program has experienced substantial expansion, growing from an initial cohort of 75 individuals to reaching approximately 150 members currently. The program now places greater emphasis on involving young women and those with disabilities to foster inclusivity and broader participation.
This initiative is part of the UNDP’s larger Livelihood and Employment Creation Project, which has received a $7.8 million funding boost. The project aims to tackle poverty and reduce inequalities by boosting sustainable income opportunities throughout Liberia.
This year, the government plans to incorporate 300 young individuals across all 15 sub-political regions of the nation, even as they face difficulties due to decreased financial support from donors. This five-year initiative, costing $7.8 million, commenced operations on May 13, 2021.
So far, 322 young individuals have taken part in the Cadet Program, featuring a 51% involvement from females and an impressive 57.1% continuation rate for employed female participants.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
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