— A Path to self-employment and economic growth
In a significant move to tackle unemployment and provide essential skills to Liberia’s workforce, Nemtek South Africa, in collaboration with Philip “N” Duwoh Electric Company (P&D), has launched an empowering training program on electric fencing installation. The initiative, led by Dewarld Van Der Poel and Francois Enslin, both Nemtek experts, aims to equip Liberians with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to venture into the field of electric fencing, offering participants the tools to become self-employed and boost economic development.
The training, which commenced on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the RLJ Resort in Paynesville City, consists of two modules, beginning with the basics of electric fencing installation and product knowledge. “The idea is that by the end of the training, these individuals should feel empowered enough to market the products and use them as a tool to generate their own income,” said Poel.
The program is designed not only to impart technical skills but also to certify participants, giving them a competitive edge in the market. Upon passing a comprehensive test, participants will receive certificates from Nemtek and P&D, further enhancing their professional credentials.
The hands-on training is structured over two days, with the first day focusing on classroom and theoretical training. Participants learn the fundamentals of electric fencing and its associated equipment. The second day shifts to practical, in-field training, where participants apply what they’ve learned by performing an actual installation. This blend of theory and practice ensures that participants leave with both the knowledge and experience necessary to succeed.
Dewarld Van Der Poel emphasized the long-term vision behind the training. “We are not just looking to teach these individuals a skill; we aim to empower them to take control of their own future. Everywhere in the world, unemployment is a problem, and Liberia is no exception. By providing basic tools and knowledge, we hope to give these individuals the foundation they need to start their own ventures.”
The focus on electric fencing comes at a crucial time for Liberia, where security concerns are high, and reliable power sources can be a challenge. “All our electric fencing products are capable of running on solar panels with batteries, meaning that even in areas where AC power is unreliable, the fences will still function,” Van Der Poel noted.
He also expressed interest in expanding into solar solutions, recognizing the potential of renewable energy to further empower communities.
The training, which saw an impressive turnout, was a collaborative effort, with significant contributions from Philip “N” Duwoh Electric Company (P&D), under the leadership of Forkpa N. Wilson.
Wilson, the Executive Director of P&D, sees this initiative as a way of giving back to the community. “This country needs us. If we are to keep Liberia moving forward, we must all play a role. The private sector must contribute to national development, and this training is one of the ways we can empower the younger generation,” Wilson stated.
He stressed the importance of equipping young Liberians with skills that allow them to “fish for themselves” rather than depending on others for their livelihood.
Participants at the training held at the RLJ Resort in Paynesville City.
Participants in the program expressed their excitement and appreciation for the opportunity. Safiyatu K. Fahnbulleh, one of the female participants, remarked, “Many of us, especially women in the technical field, rarely get such opportunities. I am proud to be part of this training, as it prepares me for the future and gives me the chance to impart knowledge to others.”
Another participant, Varney H. Gulu Gayflor, who also works in electrical installation training, shared similar sentiments. “This is the first time I’ve seen this kind of training in Liberia. It’s something we don’t usually have access to, but now that we do, I plan to use what I’ve learned to not only better myself but also help others by incorporating this into my teaching.”
The positive impact of the training is expected to ripple through the community, as participants, many of whom are already involved in vocational and electrical fields, plan to pass on their knowledge to others. By doing so, the program not only equips individuals with immediate skills but also contributes to the broader development of Liberia’s workforce.
As Nemtek and P&D look to the future, Van Der Poel confirmed plans to return for further training. “This is just the beginning. We will keep coming back to offer more modules and deeper training. The goal is to continually empower people and help them develop their own businesses.”
The initiative has already proven successful in other West African countries, including Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, and Ivory Coast. Nemtek and P&D have conducted similar programs across the region, leaving behind a trail of skilled individuals ready to take on the challenge of self-employment.
For Liberia, the potential benefits of this training extend beyond the individual participants. By equipping citizens with the skills to provide security solutions and self-sustainment, the program is contributing to a more secure and economically stable future for the country.
As Liberia continues to recover and grow, initiatives like this are key to empowering the next generation and building a sustainable economy, one skill at a time.
