– PYPP Graduates Charged to Lead Liberia’s Renewal
By: G Bennie Bravo Johnson, I.
The President’s Young Professionals Program (PYPP) celebrated a milestone on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, graduating its 11th cohort at the Ellen Johnson Ministerial Complex. With national leaders, partners, and civil service officials in attendance, the ceremony was a resounding call to integrity, excellence, and transformative public service.
A Journey of Excellence
Executive Director Ciatta Stevens d’Almeida praised the 24 graduates for completing a rigorous two-year fellowship, selected from a competitive pool of 186 applicants. “Class XI is historic,” she declared, noting their placements in institutions such as the Ministry of National Defense, Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission, and NGOs like Conservation International and KEEP.
“These graduates have demonstrated advanced leadership and professional skills. Some have already been absorbed by their host institutions,” she said. “PYPP is proof that investing in young leaders is a shared responsibility across sectors.”
She also highlighted PYPP’s growing continental footprint, now replicated in Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, and Sierra Leone through Emerging Public Leaders. “Liberia is proud to be the birthplace of a model that is shaping Africa’s next generation of public servants.”
A Call to Integrity
Dr. Josiah F. Joekai Jr., Director General of the Civil Service Agency and PYPP Board Chair, administered the civil service oath and issued a firm reminder: “You graduate not just as professionals, but as stewards of public trust. Misconduct will not be tolerated.”
He urged the fellows to embody honesty and accountability: “Liberia expects you to be the leaders who drive change—not just within your institutions, but across the nation.”
🇱🇷 A Presidential Charge
Speaking on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Deputy Minister Cornelia Kruah emphasized the weight of responsibility: “Your journey is a testament to your commitment to serve. You carry the future of Liberia on your shoulders.”
She assured the graduates of government support, adding, “President Boakai believes that Liberia’s renewal depends on disciplined, visionary youth. Never betray the trust placed in you.”
Voices of Impact
Class President Randolphlyn Darlyn Johnson reflected on the cohort’s journey: “We are proud to read from the chapter of an intensive two-year journey that taught us standards, values, and professionalism.”
Graduate Emmanuel Kiawu shared a personal testimony of transformation through his placement at the Liberia Electricity Corporation. “Leadership is not about titles—it’s about influence, responsibility, and results,” he said. “PYPP gave me the structure to turn ambition into action.”
He encouraged young Liberians to embrace opportunity with humility: “When opportunity comes, embrace it fully—not with arrogance, but with the values PYPP instils.”
