MONROVIA, Liberia — Graduates of a Liberian technical institute have been urged to turn their newly acquired skills into businesses and employment opportunities rather than waiting for jobs in a country seeking to expand its skilled workforce.
The appeal came from Wesley D. M. Nyenatoh Sr., Deputy Director General for Technical Services at the Agricultural and Industrial Training Bureau (AITB), during the 14th and 15th graduation ceremonies of Eco Technical Institute.
Speaking on behalf of AITB Director General Abraham Billy, Nyenatoh said the graduates’ technical training should be used to address practical challenges and contribute to Liberia’s economic development.
“Do not wait solely for employment opportunities to come to you,” he told the graduates, encouraging them to pursue entrepreneurship, innovation and self-reliance.
He said Liberia needs skilled workers who can translate training into practical solutions in areas ranging from construction and electrical work to agriculture, mechanics, information technology, welding and carpentry.
From certificates to livelihoods
Nyenatoh said the graduation certificates should not simply become documents displayed on walls but should be used as tools for building livelihoods and serving communities.
He urged the graduates to remain open to learning, warning that changing technology and industries would require them to continually update their skills.
He also stressed the importance of integrity, saying technical expertise must be accompanied by professionalism, responsibility and respect.
“Your certificate may open doors, but it is your character that will determine how far you go,” he said.
The official also called on the graduates to contribute to their communities and country, regardless of where their careers take them.
Recognition for teachers and families
Nyenatoh credited the institute’s instructors and administrators with helping prepare the graduates for life beyond the classroom.
He also acknowledged the role of parents and guardians, many of whom supported their children through financial sacrifices and encouragement during their studies.
He called for continued investment in technical and vocational education, saying a stronger skills base is important to Liberia’s workforce and broader economic development.
The AITB, he said, remains committed to expanding technical education, practical skills training and workforce development in support of the country’s agricultural and industrial sectors.
For the graduates, Nyenatoh’s message was direct: begin with what is available, learn from setbacks and use their training to create opportunities.
“Start small if necessary, but start,” he said.
The ceremony brought together graduates, families, educators, government representatives and other supporters to mark the completion of the students’ technical training at Eco Technical Institute.
