By Fiona Benson Kollie
House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, has underscored the importance of technical vocational and educational training (TVET). Koon made the statement over the weekend when he served as guest speaker of the second commencement convocation of Montserrado County District #3.
The school TVET Program, located in Paynesville, outside Monrovia, graduated over 184 students.
It is operated and sponsored by Montserrado County District #3 Representative Sumo Kollie Mulbah.
The school is educating some of the serious-minded youth in tailoring and fashion design, catering, soap making, tie n dye and pastry.
During the occasion, Speaker Koon observed how for many years, the Liberian society has often promoted the idea that the only path to success is to obtain a university degree.
He added that while higher education is important and valuable, it is not the only pathway to success, saying: “there is also another path that is equally powerful, practical, and essential to national development including vocational education.”
Koon said, vocational education is not simply an “alternative,” but a form of education; skill-based training that prepares individuals for real careers.
Unlike traditional academic education, Speaker Koon said, vocational training provides hands-on experience, equips students with the tools, technical knowledge, and practical skills needed to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.
“Whether in construction, tailoring, or electrical work, our economy needs people, who can build, repair, create, and innovate, people who can do the work, not just to analyze it.”
Koon maintained that TVET program is a reality, especially now important for Liberia, at a time where many young people face the challenges of unemployment, limited opportunities, and social vulnerability.
The District #3 TVET Program, was established on June 15, 2023, from the vision and leadership of Rep. Mulbah, who recognized the need to empower young people, particularly those residing in District #3.
The goal of the program was to redirect vulnerable youth toward productive lives through practical skills training, mentorship, and entrepreneurship opportunities.
“To effectively implement this vision, the District 3 TVET Program partnered with Multee International School TVET Program, which provided technical expertise, training facilities, and structured vocational curricula designed to produce competent and skilled graduates.
Since the inception of the program, it has recorded remarkable achievements with the first phase of total of 859 students enrolled and trained in various vocational disciplines. Many of the graduates are now using their skills to support themselves, start small businesses, and contribute positively to their communities.