CSA Director-General Hosts Meet-and-Greet with New PYPP Fellows

Dr. Josiah F. Joekai, Jr., Director-General of the Civil Service Agency (CSA) and Board Chair of the President’s Young Professional Program (PYPP), hosted a meet-and-greet on Thursday, May 1, 2025, welcoming the newly inducted Class XIII fellows of Liberia’s premier public sector fellowship program. The event was held in the CSA’s fourth-floor conference room at the Ministerial Complex.

Bringing together a cohort of young professionals from diverse academic and geographic backgrounds, the gathering marked a renewed commitment to strengthening Liberia’s civil service through youth empowerment. Fellows in Class XIII hail from counties such as Bong, Grand Bassa, Maryland, Montserrado, and Lofa and hold degrees in disciplines ranging from public health and administration to environmental science, engineering, agriculture, and social work.

Accompanied by PYPP’s Executive Director, Ciatta Stevens d’Almeida and the program’s staff, the fellows engaged in discussions underscoring the program’s dedication to mentorship, professional development, and institutional collaboration.

In his remarks, Dr. Joekai warmly welcomed the fellows, reaffirming the CSA’s mission to cultivate the next generation of civil service leaders. He commended them for successfully navigating PYPP’s highly competitive selection process, emphasizing the program’s role in fostering integrity, innovation, and accountability in governance.

“You are the future of our country’s leadership,” Dr. Joekai stated. “This program not only prepares you to lead but also challenges you to serve with honesty, discipline, and excellence.”

He further assured fellows that the CSA remains committed to ensuring their placements align with their academic and professional backgrounds, enabling them to make meaningful contributions within government.

Since its inception in 2009, PYPP has recruited over 245 fellows, many of whom now hold key positions in government and international institutions. The selection process for Class XIII was rigorous, with over 350 applicants vying for a coveted spot—ultimately, 40 were admitted, underscoring PYPP’s dedication to recruiting Liberia’s top talent.

As Board Chair, Dr. Joekai continues to champion public sector reforms and strengthen collaboration between the CSA and PYPP. The meet-and-greet concluded with a Q&A session, networking opportunities, and photo sessions—setting the stage for what promises to be a transformative journey for Class XIII fellows and the future of Liberia’s governance.