By: Aminata Sesay
A promising new chapter has begun for young people in Sumbuya Village, Bo District, as the National Youth Commission (NAYCOM), in partnership with Sierra Tropical Limited (STL) and supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), officially launched a transformative skill training programme designed to change lives and strengthen livelihoods.
The Hands-On, Market-Driven Skills Training Programme aims to equip 100 youth with practical, job-ready skills in high-demand technical fields, including machine operation, automobile repairs, welding, and fabrication. This initiative is expected to boost the local workforce and create long-term economic opportunities across the Southern Region.
Speaking at the launch event, NAYCOM Commissioner Ahmed Atata Mansaray, Esq., emphasized that the programme’s impact extends far beyond technical training.
“This initiative is about more than just technical skills; it’s about building a robust workforce that meets Sierra Leone’s growing demand for local expertise, while fostering collaboration between the technical education sector and private industry,” he said.
He added that the programme represents a strategic step toward reducing youth unemployment and supporting national economic growth.
UNDP Resident Representative Frederick Ampiah echoed these sentiments, noting that UNDP’s support is aligned with the government’s goal of expanding access to market-relevant vocational training.
“We are not only investing in skills but in sustainable livelihoods. These young people are gaining tools that can change the trajectory of their communities,” he stated.
Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs, Patrick Michaelson Gibrilla, described the initiative as “a landmark opportunity” for Sierra Leone’s youth.
He urged participants to take full advantage of the training by approaching it with commitment and purpose.
“This is about preparing a new generation to lead, innovate, and drive national progress,” he remarked, emphasizing the joint vision of NAYCOM, STL, and UNDP to empower youth and promote inclusive development.
As the training programme begins, hopes are high that it will not only provide essential skills but also inspire a shift in mindset encouraging young people to see themselves as key drivers of Sierra Leone’s future.
