By New Dawn
Copyright thenewdawnliberia
Liberia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports has announced the reopening of the Tumutu Agricultural and Vocational Training Center (TAVTC), a once-renowned hub for skills training, scheduled for October 15-20, 2025.
By Edwin N. Khakie
Bong County, October 2, 2025The announcement was made by Youth and Sports Minister Cllr. J. Cole Bangalu emphasized that the move is part of the government’s broader strategy to equip young Liberians with practical skills that directly support agriculture, self-reliance, and rural economic growth.
Situated in Salala District #6, near the Bong–Margibi border, Tumutu has long been recognized as a pioneer institution for hands-on agricultural and vocational education. Established in 1978, the center trained thousands of Liberians in disciplines such as crop production, animal husbandry, aquaculture, and related trades. Its model blended classroom learning with intensive field practice, ensuring trainees could apply their skills directly in rural communities.
Minister Bangalu noted that the reopening of Tumutu will restore this legacy, focusing on agriculture and allied skills that empower young people to become not only employable but also self-sufficient entrepreneurs.
“The reopening of Tumutu is a direct investment in the future of our young people,” Minister Bangalu told reporters. “We want to strengthen vocational education, particularly in agriculture, so that Liberian youth can drive local economic activity and reduce dependence on imported food.”
He emphasized that the revamped curriculum will focus on practical learning, offering students opportunities to engage in real-time agricultural production and community development projects.
The revival of Tumutu comes at a critical time, as Liberia faces high youth unemployment and pressing demands for skills training outside of Monrovia. If adequately funded and staffed, the institute could serve as a model rural training hub, decentralizing vocational education and creating pathways for rural youth to improve their livelihoods.
However, challenges remain. Ensuring consistent budgetary support, recruiting qualified instructors, and connecting trainees to local and national markets will be essential for the program’s long-term success.
Tumutu’s reopening also carries political significance. In 2020, discussions in the Legislature over upgrading the institution drew national attention, culminating in a presidential veto by then-President George M. Weah. The debates highlighted both the opportunities and the persistent financial hurdles associated with revitalizing Liberia’s vocational education system.
For residents of Bong County and surrounding areas, the reopening of Tumutu represents more than just the resumption of classes; it is the revival of hope. Communities are optimistic that the institute will once again play a central role in training young people, boosting local food production, and driving rural development.
As Liberia looks to rebuild and diversify its economy, the Tumutu Agricultural and Vocational Training Center may yet reclaim its place as a cornerstone of skills development and rural transformation. -Edited by Othello B. Garblah.
