Dr. Josiah F. Joekai, Jr., Director-General of the Civil Service Agency (CSA), has urged the 175 graduates of the 29th Cycle of the Liberia Opportunities Industrialization Center (LOIC) to embrace innovation and self-reliance, forging their own paths rather than waiting for traditional job opportunities.
This graduation is more than just an academic milestone—it marks a national achievement. The newly trained graduates represent Liberia’s solution to its chronic skills gap and serve as warriors against poverty, taking control of their own destinies. Dr. Joekai emphasized this point in his opening remarks.
As a former beneficiary of an OIC training program during his years as a refugee in Guinea, Dr. Joekai reflected on the transformative power of technical education:
“That experience laid the foundation for the trajectory that brought me to where I stand today. So, my dear friends, I speak to you not just as a public servant but as a proud OIC product. The knowledge and discipline you have acquired here at LOIC can propel you into national and international service. Like me, you too can rise to serve and transform Liberia. Liberia needs you now—there is no waiting for tomorrow.”
Since its establishment in 1977, LOIC has been Liberia’s leading vocational training institution, equipping over 70,000 graduates with practical skills essential for workforce development. Dr. Joekai emphasized the importance of repositioning LOIC as a national job creation incubator rather than simply viewing it as a charity-driven institution.
In recognition of LOIC’s impact, Dr. Joekai announced a strategic partnership between the Civil Service Agency and LOIC, ensuring that trained graduates will be deployed across government ministries, agencies, and commissions, reinforcing national service with skilled professionals.
As the backbone of governance and public service, CSA plays a crucial role in civil service recruitment, policy implementation, and workforce development, directly influencing the nation’s administrative strength.
Meanwhile, LOIC continues to serve as Liberia’s primary vocational training institution, preparing thousands of graduates with hands-on skills in key industries such as construction, mechanics, tailoring, and IT through practical training and entrepreneurship development.
Together, these institutions are driving Liberia’s workforce transformation, laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and national prosperity.
The 29th graduation ceremony celebrated 175 graduates from various departments, including auto mechanics, cosmetology, catering, electricity, general construction, plumbing, refrigeration and air conditioning repair, and tailoring.