-Beneficiaries of the first cohort internship program Praise National Road Fund
Monrovia – Beneficiaries of the first cohort of the National Road Fund of Liberia (NRFL) Internship Program have praised the institution for its wise decision to initiate the program, which they believe is playing a crucial role in addressing youth unemployment in Liberia.
The NRF internship program, which is set to launch its second cohort soon, provides a platform for young professionals to gain exposure to working environments and practical experiences relevant to their fields of study.
According to the NRFL, with more than 60% of Liberia’s population comprising young people, it is essential to involve them in the country’s development process. The internship program aims to equip these young individuals with the skills and experience necessary to contribute to national growth.
Destine A. Follely, a beneficiary of the first cohort, shared his positive experiences on the Super Morning Show on ELBC Radio on Monday, September 23, 2024. Follely emphasized that the internship program has been pivotal in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application for young professionals.
“The program is vital for nation-building. The future we envision for Liberia must be prepared for now,” Follely stated. “One of the reasons the NRFL launched this program is to ensure that the developmental process of the country continues seamlessly.”
Follely highlighted his opportunity to interact with experienced engineers, which significantly broadened his understanding of engineering concepts. “I had the privilege to speak with a bridge engineer who introduced me to post-tension design, a specialized career path I had never considered before.”
He believes that the NRFL’s decision to initiate the program was wise and hopes other ministries and agencies will follow suit to help reduce youth unemployment. “I pray and hope that God continues to provide strength and wisdom for this program so it can reach many more young people in need,” Follely added.
Initially hesitant to apply, Follely eventually gained the courage to participate in the rigorous selection process and was assigned to Road Safety Action International (RSAI) in Congo Town. His role involved collecting data on road accidents for the Liberia National Police (LNP) and studying pedestrian behavior and vehicle interactions on highways.
“This experience broadened my knowledge of road traffic movement and networks. Although my interest was initially in structures, my assignment at RSAI enhanced my understanding of road design and the impact of climate change on road infrastructure,” he noted.
Follely transitioned from data collection to leading the awareness and education team at RSAI, thanks to the skills and knowledge gained through the NRF internship program.
Rachel Scott, another beneficiary and a Management Information System student at Starz University College, learned about the program through social media. Despite initial doubts, she applied and was selected for the program last year.
Currently positioned at the NRF, Scott works across various departments, gaining fundamental knowledge of the organization’s operations. “The experience has been encouraging as I now have insights into how each department operates and what is needed to be done,” she said.
Albert K. Samukai, Chief Program Officer of the NRFL, highlighted the program’s achievements, especially in technical fields like science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. He noted that the program addresses the gap in job recruitment by providing young graduates with practical experience, which is often a barrier due to high experience requirements.
Samukai explained that the interns are paired with construction companies and civil society organizations to gain job-relevant exposure. The 14-week program includes two weeks of training in soft and hard skills to prepare interns for their placements.
“The NRFL aims to contribute to workforce development by ensuring young people are provided opportunities to serve and build their capacity,” Samukai stated. He also mentioned that the program targets 20 young professionals this year, with a rigorous selection process based on academic performance, community service, and innovative thinking.
Joeta S. Neufville-Wento, Manager of the NRFL, shared that last year’s program received 147 applications, of which 27 were shortlisted. Two interns had the opportunity to further their education abroad, while 13 were placed in various private institutions.
Neufville-Wento emphasized that the program’s success lies in its merit-based selection process. “The program is not about who you know. If you are competent and qualified, you will be allowed to serve,” she stated.
During the first three months, the NRF provides a stipend for transportation, after which the interns are expected to receive support from their employers. The final selection process includes professional training to equip interns with hard skills necessary for the job market.
The second cohort of the NRF internship program is set to launch on Friday, continuing its mission to bridge the unemployment gap among Liberia’s youth and contribute to national development.
