By: Saidu Jalloh
In a bold move to tackle youth unemployment and empower the next generation, the Ministry of Youth Affairs has launched a groundbreaking skills development programme that guarantees employment for its participants.
Implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the National Youth Commission (NAYCOM), and private sector partner Sierra Tropical Ltd, the initiative will train 100 young Sierra Leoneans in high-demand technical fields.
The programme focuses on practical skills such as machine operations, automobile repairs, and welding and fabrication. What sets it apart is its guaranteed job placement upon completion, all 100 trainees will transition directly into full-time employment with Sierra Tropical Ltd, a leading agro-industrial company operating in Sierra Leone.
Speaking at the official launch, Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs, Mr. Patrick Michaelson Gibrilla, hailed the initiative as “a shining example of what public-private collaboration can achieve for youth empowerment.”
“This is more than just training; it’s a direct pathway to employment,” he stated. “We are equipping young people with the skills they need to thrive in today’s economy, while also enabling them to contribute meaningfully to national development.”
Mr. Gibrilla emphasized that sustainable development cannot be achieved without addressing youth unemployment. He praised the programme for its innovative approach linking skills acquisition with tangible economic opportunity and for positioning young people as agents of productivity and national progress.
The partnership with Sierra Tropical Ltd ensures that the training is aligned with current industry needs, making the skills immediately applicable and relevant. UNDP contributes technical expertise, capacity building, and a framework for monitoring and evaluation. NAYCOM, meanwhile, plays a central role in recruitment, programme implementation, and ongoing mentorship.
This initiative marks a departure from traditional training models, moving toward demand-driven skills development that is directly informed by labor market needs. It supports the government’s broader youth empowerment agenda and aligns with Sierra Leone’s national strategy for inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
As the country continues to address the pressing challenge of youth unemployment, this programme stands out as a scalable and sustainable model. It demonstrates how collaboration between government, development partners, and the private sector can deliver real, lasting change in the lives of young people.