Bong County – The ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy (AMLTA) has started a new training program in Bong County as part of its continuous efforts to improve the literacy and numeracy abilities of people living in fenceline villages to get them ready for future employment prospects.
The program’s goal is to provide job seekers and those looking for vocational training possibilities with the fundamental skills needed to pass the Academy’s aptitude exams.
AMLTA created an eight-week training program that will tutor young people in English, math, job readiness, business, and emotional intelligence. Tests will be given after each session to track progress.
Training Manager Victor Loubser spoke during the launch and disclosed that many were unable to pass the assessments given because of low marks and literacy skills.
He explained that Kleber Silva, CEO of AML Global Mining, has mandated that training and employment opportunities be given preference to members of fenceline communities.
Due to the direct impact, ArcelorMittal’s operations must benefit the residents in bordering villages. The purpose of the continuous training is to get them ready for their intended fields. Loubser emphasized that “beneficiaries should not take this opportunity lightly because a successful completion will put them in a better position to access possibilities in the future.”
The training is now being held at three locations in Bong County: Rock Crusher, Gbarta Public School, and Greenhill Quarry. While some trainees had trouble at first with reading and writing, it is reported that all 24 participants are now on track and should achieve their objectives, according to Ruth Kamara, a trainer at Gbarta Public School.
In a similar vein, Rock Crusher trainer Tony F. Gborlorwolo observed that while trainees’ attendance was initially low, they are currently exhibiting a noticeable improvement in both attendance and performance.
In order to carry out the program, AMLTA previously trained teachers and sent them throughout Grand Bassa, Bong, and Nimba Counties in collaboration with the African Bible College University. Based on the outcomes of their assessments, applicants were divided into P1, P2, and P3 levels.
For continued placement in their category, each trainee must complete eight weeks of literacy and mathematical instruction; however, based on their performance, they may be able to move forward.
On September 11, 2025, the program was formally introduced at Bong County’s Greenhill Quarry. It included 22 chosen applicants, Community Relations officials, local chiefs, and a group of AMLTA employees under the direction of Training Manager Victor Loubser.
