Gbarnga, Bong – The Democracy School for Youth Wings of Political Parties, a capacity-building initiative aimed at strengthening youth leadership, promoting democratic ideals, and expanding inclusive political engagement throughout Liberia, has been formally launched by the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD).
The first batch, which included 24 young leaders from more than twelve political parties, concluded a week-long intense training in Gbarnga, Bong County, from March 23 to 27, 2026. The course taught participants about constitutional democracy, civic engagement, ethical leadership, youth and women in politics, and digital political participation.
Oscar Bloh, the Country Director of NIMD Liberia, called for moral, inclusive, and transformative youth involvement in his introductory remarks, emphasizing that the initiative’s goal is to change political culture rather than perpetuate current practices.
“This Democracy School is designed to help you rethink leadership, internalize the lessons and apply them to build a political culture rooted in ethics, inclusion, and accountability,” Oscar Bloh said.
Cllr. Bloh encouraged participants to champion internal reforms within their parties and embrace collaborative approaches to addressing Liberia’s shared challenges, as steps forward for inclusive democracy in Liberia.
The CEO of iCampus, Luther Jeke, encouraged people to go beyond symbolic engagement. He said, “Change your perspective from just being present to actively shaping decisions.”
Cllr. Jallah Barbu, Executive Director of the Office for the Establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court, reminded participants of their role as change makers. “Young people have enormous potential to drive democratic development. Liberia needs your voice, energy, and ideass” Cllr. Barbu noted.
Eddie Jarwolo, Executive Director of Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, called for a coordinated youth agenda organized around a clear national youth agenda. “Prioritize strengthening institutions and shaping policies rather than personalities,” Jawolo alarmed.
Participants pledge to take transformative action. Participants reiterated their dedication to using the knowledge they had learned and conveyed their sincere gratitude for the training. One participant noted “This training reshaped my political understanding. It strengthened my commitment to advancing democratic transformation.”
Others emphasized the importance of initiating reforms at the community level, noting that impactful leadership does not depend solely on holding public office. The cohort concluded the training with commitments to:
Promoting youth inclusion within their political parties, Strengthening intra and inter party dialogue, Advocating for structural and policy reforms, and Fostering peaceful and constructive political engagement.
A Foundation for Inclusive Politics and Increased Youth Leadership. The Democracy School offers a vibrant learning environment that promotes inclusive decision-making and enhances young political actors’ ability to make significant contributions to national governance. Participants created useful action plans to increase youth involvement in their political parties and foster policy-driven leadership through expert-led presentations, peer education, and cooperative activities.
The Democracy School is a component of NIMD Liberia’s larger initiatives to promote democratic government and inclusive political involvement. With assistance from the European Union, Ireland, and Sweden, it is carried out under the Liberia Electoral Support Project, which is overseen by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with UN Women and NIMD.
Reported by: Naneka A. Hoffman
