MONROVIA, LIBERIA-Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan has urged graduates of the President’s Young Professional Program to remain focused and resilient as they begin their careers in Liberia’s public service.

‎Ngafuan said the young professionals should be prepared to work in challenging environments, including situations where they may receive limited support from colleagues. ‎

Delivering the keynote address at the graduation ceremony in Monrovia, the finance minister encouraged the graduates to use their skills to improve government institutions. ‎

‎He also called on them to embrace teamwork, demonstrate empathy and support colleagues facing personal or professional challenges. ‎

‎Meanwhile, Ngafuan urged senior government officials to create opportunities for the young professionals to serve, develop their skills and take on greater responsibilities. ‎

‎Civil Service Agency Director General Dr. Josiah Joekai challenged the graduates to combine their professional knowledge with integrity to help advance public sector reforms. ‎ ‎

Dr. Joekai noted that reforms in recruitment, performance management and technology can only succeed when competent professionals are available to implement them effectively. ‎

‎He encouraged the graduates to become problem solvers, innovators and ethical leaders capable of addressing challenges within their respective institutions. ‎

‎As part of the program’s continued expansion, the President’s Young Professional Program has placed young professionals in local government institutions to support service delivery. ‎ ‎

PYPP Executive Director Ciata Stevens D’Almeida said eighteen fellows have been placed in Bong and Grand Bassa Counties, with eleven serving in Bong and seven in Grand Bassa. ‎

‎She explained that the fellows were recruited from the counties where they are serving, with placements covering health, education, agriculture, justice and security, local government, and water and sanitation. ‎ ‎

Established in 2009, PYPP provides recent Liberian university graduates with a two-year fellowship combining professional training, mentorship, and practical experience in government institutions. ‎ ‎

D’Almeida said:” The program’s impact is also reflected in the number of former fellows who have advanced into leadership positions in government or pursued further studies in Liberia and abroad”.