06/07/2026
Government Officials Hail Liberian Youth Foundation's Impact at 19th Graduation Ceremony
MONROVIA, Liberia (July 4, 2026) — Senior officials of the Liberian government have praised the Liberian Youth Foundation (LYF) for its continued investment in youth empowerment and technical vocational education, describing the organization's work as a significant contribution to national development.
Speaking as Guest Speaker at the Foundation's 19th Graduation Ceremony, Hon. Laaramand Nyonton, Deputy Minister for Technical Vocational Education Training at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, commended the Liberian Youth Foundation and its Executive Director, Abdurahman IA Fofana , for their resilience and commitment to transforming the lives of young people, women, and children since 2013.
Nyonton said the Foundation has remained steadfast despite challenges such as rejection, discouragement, and limited access to financial resources.
"The work of the Liberian Youth Foundation is a true demonstration of patriotism and youth leadership," Nyonton said. "Your commitment to empowering young people through practical skills development is helping to build a stronger Liberia."
Addressing the graduates, Nyonton urged them to believe in themselves and apply the vocational and entrepreneurial skills they have acquired to improve their livelihoods while creating opportunities within their communities.
"The skills you have received today are not just certificates they are tools for changing your lives and contributing to national development," he said.
In a gesture of support for youth entrepreneurship, the deputy minister pledged to purchase products from one of the graduates to encourage the growth of her small business.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Sona T. Sesay, Assistant Minister for Student Personnel Services at the Ministry of Education, congratulated the graduates for investing in practical skills that will enable them to become self-reliant and economically productive.
"Liberia depends on its young people to build a better future," Sesay said. "However, it is those who prepare themselves with knowledge and practical skills who will lead that transformation."
She applauded Executive Director Abdurahman I.A. Fofana, the Foundation's staff, and volunteers for expanding access to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), noting that the country needs more organizations committed to equipping young people with employable skills.
"Liberia needs more institutions and leaders who are committed to empowering young people through skills development and entrepreneurship," she said.
Meanwhile, Amb. Lawrence Dayougar, Paynesville City Youth Focal Person, encouraged the graduates to pursue lifelong learning, personal development, and responsible leadership as they transition into employment and entrepreneurship.
The Liberian Youth Foundation also expressed appreciation to government officials, development partners, community leaders, guests, and supporters whose presence contributed to the success of the graduation ceremony.
The organization extended special thanks to Hon. Cornelia W. Kruah, Minister of Youth and Sports, for designating Deputy Minister Nyonton to represent the ministry at the event.
The graduation ceremony marked another milestone in the Liberian Youth Foundation's mission to equip young Liberians with technical, vocational, and entrepreneurial skills. Since its establishment, the Foundation has trained and mentored hundreds of young people, empowering them to create sustainable livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to Liberia's economic growth and national development.
