The construction of the Ducor Technical and Vocational College in Monrovia, Liberia, is nearing completion, promising a significant boost to the nation’s efforts in poverty reduction and youth empowerment. Montserrado County Senator Saah H. Joseph, the driving force behind the project, announced that the college is 90% complete and poised to enroll its first batch of 8,000 students upon its opening. The ambitious project, which broke ground on March 10, 2020, represents a substantial investment in Liberia’s future, aiming to equip young people with valuable skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic growth. The college’s development is a testament to Senator Joseph’s commitment to providing educational opportunities and addressing the challenges faced by Liberia’s youth.
The Ducor Technical and Vocational College, located in the New Georgia Gulf Community along the Japanese Freeway, is envisioned as a comprehensive institution offering a range of vocational and technical programs. Initially, the college will cater to 8,000 students, with 1,000 focusing on nursing and the remaining 7,000 split between morning and afternoon sessions. The college’s establishment adds to four existing high schools that Senator Joseph has supported over the past decade, further solidifying his dedication to education. This multi-faceted approach to education underscores the importance of providing diverse learning pathways for young Liberians.
Senator Joseph highlighted the strategic partnerships that have been instrumental in the college’s development, particularly in the medical field. Collaborations with universities in the United States and the Philippines will provide crucial support in terms of training materials, manpower, and equipment. These partnerships will ensure that Liberian students receive high-quality education and training in the medical profession, equipping them to address the country’s healthcare needs. The senator also mentioned ongoing recruitment efforts for instructors, with interest from professionals in Ghana, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, and the Philippines, highlighting the regional and international scope of the project.
The project’s initial budget was estimated at US$1.5 million, encompassing construction and furnishing. Senator Joseph personally contributed US$100,000, a testament to his commitment to the project. Additional funding has come from various sources, including a substantial contribution of approximately US$500,000 from Jefferson Baptist Church in the United States and further support from other individuals. Senator Joseph even secured loans to ensure the project’s completion, highlighting the financial complexities involved in such a large-scale undertaking. He expressed the intention to decentralize the model, with plans for a second college in Mount Barclay with a capacity of 10,000 students already in the discussion phase and land acquisition underway.
Beyond the construction of the physical infrastructure, Senator Joseph emphasized the importance of legislative support for the college’s long-term sustainability. He outlined plans to work with the Liberian government and his legislative colleagues to formally establish the Ducor Technical and Vocational College through legislation, securing its future and enabling it to continue serving the needs of Liberian youth. This legislative push reflects a broader commitment to institutionalizing vocational and technical education in Liberia.
Senator Joseph addressed the critical issue of youth unemployment and the prevalent engagement in low-income activities like tricycle riding. He champions the Ducor Technical and Vocational College as a powerful tool for addressing these societal challenges by providing young people with marketable skills and opportunities for meaningful employment. He also expressed his commitment to working with rehabilitation centers to offer educational opportunities to disadvantaged youth struggling with substance abuse, further demonstrating the college’s potential to contribute to social rehabilitation and integration. Furthermore, recognizing the financial constraints faced by many potential students, Senator Joseph pledged to explore funding mechanisms that would enable free or low-cost tuition, ensuring accessibility for all. He is currently in discussions with partners and the national government to secure funding for staff salaries, operational costs, and educational materials, aiming to remove financial barriers for prospective students.
