The Ministry of Labour has completed payments to more than 1,500 students who participated in the 2025 National Vacation Job Program, marking a significant milestone in the government’s youth empowerment agenda.
Launched as a pilot initiative in 2024, the program has rapidly gained traction, earning praise from both public and private institutions for its role in providing students with meaningful on-the-job experience. Labour Minister Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah, Sr. described the program’s expansion as “historic,” emphasizing its potential to become a cornerstone of national workforce development.
“We are very pleased with the outcome of this year’s program. No institution reported misconduct, which speaks volumes about the discipline and commitment of our young people,” Minister Kruah stated during the payment exercise.
He called for stronger collaboration across government ministries and agencies to institutionalize the program, urging each to allocate budgetary support to ensure its sustainability. Kruah pledged to present a formal proposal to President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., whom he described as “deeply committed to creating opportunities for Liberians, especially the youth.”
The Minister also highlighted the program’s inclusivity, noting the active participation of students from the disabled community. He commended their performance and reiterated the government’s responsibility to ensure equitable access to employment.
“This is a clear sign that with the right support, every Liberian youth—regardless of physical ability—can contribute meaningfully to nation-building,” Kruah said.
In a move to deepen inclusion, Kruah directed Deputy Minister for Planning and Manpower Development, Stephen S. Kolubah, to explore pathways for integrating qualified individuals with disabilities into the workforce.
Among the beneficiaries was Mr. Joseph T. K. Barfeh, a visually impaired student, who expressed gratitude to the Ministry for its inclusive recruitment process. He cited Section 5 of the Act establishing the National Commission for Disability, which mandates that at least 4% of employees in government institutions be persons with disabilities.
“Bringing us on board shows a broader commitment to creating opportunities for all,” Barfeh said, urging the Ministry to consider placing at least one disabled person in every department.
The event drew representatives from government ministries, agencies, the Human Resource Association of Liberia, and private sector partners who collaborated in implementing the 2025 program.
Minister Kruah concluded by encouraging students who received employment offers to serve as ambassadors of the initiative. “Seize the moment and make the best use of the opportunity being offered to you,” he urged.
