The ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) 2025 Vacation Job Program provided a transformative experience for over 400 students across Nimba, Bong, and Grand Bassa counties, offering them a unique opportunity to gain practical work experience in diverse professional settings. Nimba County, hosting the largest contingent of interns, served as a vibrant hub for this initiative, with students placed in various public and private institutions. The program’s core objective was to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, equipping students with the skills and networks necessary for a smooth transition into their future careers. The emphasis was placed on experiential learning, fostering personal and professional growth beyond the immediate financial benefits.
The interns’ testimonials paint a vivid picture of the program’s impact. Across various placements, a common thread emerged: the profound appreciation for the exposure to professional environments and the practical application of their academic knowledge. Princess Zegbuo, assigned to the Ministry of Labor sub-office in Sanniquellie, gained valuable insights into the Ministry’s role in resolving workplace disputes, highlighting the practical knowledge acquired beyond theoretical classroom learning. This sentiment was echoed by other interns, who underscored the significance of experiencing firsthand the daily operations of different institutions and the nuances of professional conduct.
At the Sanniquellie Youth Centre, interns like Irene N. Dangan, Paul Boumie, Lawrence Konkah, and Marylyn Tarlee Gibson, all placed under the Ministry of Youth and Sports, found the experience particularly enriching. Irene, who served as the group supervisor, emphasized the development of her leadership skills, directly applying her Management studies from Nimba University to a practical setting. This hands-on leadership experience provided her with invaluable insights into managing teams and coordinating activities, solidifying her theoretical understanding with practical application.
Paul Boumie, a Criminal Justice student at Nimba University, discovered a direct correlation between his field of study and his internship responsibilities. Engaging in educational activities with the youth allowed him to apply the principles of criminal justice, particularly its emphasis on education and rehabilitation. Furthermore, observing the Youth Coordinator provided him with a practical understanding of the role’s demands and the path to success in that field. This practical application of academic principles reinforced his learning and provided a clearer vision of his future career trajectory.
Carcious S.K. Bleh’s placement at the Ministry of Internal Affairs with the Liberia Geo-Information Service (LISGIS) offered a different but equally valuable experience. He was exposed to technical tasks such as geo-data collection and other forms of information gathering. This hands-on experience with specialized equipment and methodologies provided him with a unique skill set and a practical understanding of the technical aspects of his field, enhancing his future employability.
Harrison B. Waydon, AML’s Community Relations Superintendent in Yekepa, reinforced the program’s overarching goal during his interaction with the interns. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing the knowledge and experience gained over the financial compensation. This emphasis on long-term professional development highlights AML’s commitment to investing in the future of these students, equipping them with the skills and networks necessary to thrive in their chosen careers. The reflective component of the program, requiring interns to document their experiences, further solidified the learning process, encouraging them to critically analyze their growth and synthesize their newfound knowledge.
The AML 2025 Vacation Job Program stands as a testament to the transformative power of experiential learning. By providing students with access to real-world work environments, the program facilitated the development of crucial soft skills, technical expertise, and professional networks. The program’s focus on practical application, coupled with mentorship and opportunities for reflection, ensured a holistic learning experience, preparing these young individuals for successful and fulfilling careers. This initiative not only benefits the students but also contributes to the overall development of the workforce in Liberia, fostering a generation of skilled and experienced professionals ready to contribute to the nation’s growth.
