This report underscores the crucial role that TVET is expected to play in supporting Liberia, a post-conflict nation, to address youth unemployment by equipping them with employable skills. The revitalization of TVET is crucial for Liberia's continued peace and development.
The report highlights various ongoing public, non-governmental and private initiatives amidst a fragmented sub-sector. It points to the factors that promote the country’s TVET and skills development, such as a thriving informal economy, formal skills development programs, indigenous master craftsmen, diverse training institutions, and political commitment to revitalize TVET as a strategy for youth employment, demonstrated by the 16% allocation in the national budget of 2007/08.
On the other hand, apart from fragmentation, the sub-sector suffers from the absence of a comprehensive national policy, poor coordination among government agencies, weak linkages between training and employment, shortage of competent trainers, outdated equipment, inadequate facilities, insufficient career guidance services, and poor social perception of TVET.
The report highlights government reforms that commenced with the formulation of a comprehensive sector policy. The aim is to transform TVET into a demand-driven, employment-oriented system that aligns training with market needs, and provides the necessary support structures for sustainable economic growth.