Today, October 31, 2024, the Vice President of the Republic of Liberia, Hon. Jeremiah Kpang Koung, officially unveiled the first-ever state-of-the-art computer-based National Civil Service Testing Center on behalf of H.E. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. This initiative aims to promote merit-based recruitment in Liberia’s civil service. Vice President Koung highlighted that this milestone ushers in a new era of merit-based, transparent, and efficient recruitment practices. The center is equipped with advanced computers and tools, allowing for faster, more accurate assessments and a quicker recruitment timeline.
The facility houses three testing rooms with 27 cubicles, each designed for a comfortable testing experience. The testing system, developed with a comprehensive question bank, caters to 85 civil service positions. Candidates can book tests online or in person, receive results promptly via email, and challenge test results through an appeals process to ensure transparency. This automated, competency-based testing minimizes human error and fosters an equitable selection environment where roles are filled based on merit and qualifications. The new model ensures that civil servants possess the necessary skills to advance public administration and serve Liberia effectively.
Vice President Koung lauded the CSA for its leadership and vision, stating that the modern facility reflects Liberia’s values of integrity and efficiency. He emphasized the transformation in public service recruitment and reaffirmed the commitment to a skilled, dedicated, and accountable civil service.
Earlier, Director-General Hon. Josiah F. Joekai, Jr., provided an overview of this pivotal initiative, emphasizing that the National Civil Service Testing Center represents the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering a civil service grounded in excellence, accountability, and responsiveness. He highlighted that this state-of-the-art facility is designed to ensure that recruitment processes are conducted with the highest standards of fairness and transparency. By integrating advanced technology and standardized testing procedures, the center aims to eliminate biases and inefficiencies, thereby creating a merit-based system that selects the most qualified individuals to serve the nation.
Hon. Joekai further noted that the establishment of the National Civil Service Testing Center is a significant milestone in Liberia’s journey towards improving public administration. He underscored the importance of equipping the civil service with competent and dedicated personnel who can effectively address the evolving needs of the nation. This initiative, he pointed out, not only enhances the credibility of the recruitment process but also reinforces the government’s dedication to building a skilled and capable workforce committed to serving the Liberian people with integrity and excellence.
The CSA also acknowledged the contributions of Mwetana Consulting and Technology Group, along with Integrity Consultancy, in developing the system and the World Bank for its support. The inauguration of the National Civil Service Testing Center marks a significant step forward in enhancing Liberia’s public administration, ensuring excellence and dedication in serving the nation’s citizens.
This welcoming development saw the attendance of an array of government officials, development partners, and members of the National Legislature, including representatives from civil society organizations.