By: Julius Konton
The Executive Mansion has officially launched its 2025–2026 Communication Internship Program, marking a major step in advancing public sector communication and youth empowerment in Liberia.
Held at the Executive Pavilion on Broad Street, the event gathered senior government officials, media professionals, development partners, and representatives from academia and civil society.
Themed “Building the Future of Public Communications Through Access, Integrity, and Innovation,” the initiative aims to provide young Liberians with hands-on experience in strategic communication, digital media, and public information management within the Office of the President and other government institutions.
Speaking on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., the Acting Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Samuel A. Stevquoah, delivered the keynote address.
He described the program as a “cornerstone” of the Boakai Administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and transparency.
“This initiative will serve as a platform for nurturing a new generation of young communicators who will strengthen the bridge between government and citizens through ethical, innovative, and responsible public communication,” said Minister Stevquoah.
He emphasized the President’s commitment to fostering access, integrity, and innovation in governance, declaring communication as “the heartbeat of democracy and a vital tool for accountability and trust-building.”
In remarks at the event, UNDP Country Representative Aliou Mamadou Dia praised the Executive Mansion’s leadership and pledged continued support for programs that build institutional capacity and enhance communication in the public sector.
“This program speaks directly to the future of Liberia,” he noted, stressing the importance of investing in young communicators who will shape national dialogue.
Press Union of Liberia (PUL) President Julius Kullie Kanubah hailed the program as “visionary” and “timely,” urging interns to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics.
Samukai Konneh, representing Internews Liberia, underscored the initiative’s alignment with global efforts toward open governance and fact-based communication, adding that Internews remains committed to supporting mentorship and skills development.
Acting Minister of Information Johnny Tarkpah expressed the Ministry’s full support, committing to collaboration with the Ministry of State to ensure the program’s success.
Montserrado County Superintendent Whroway Bryant, National Port Authority Managing Director Sekou Dukuly, and Unity Party Chairman Rev. J. Luther Tarpeh all extended endorsements and pledged institutional support.
At the same time, Veteran Executive Mansion staff, including Videographers Johnathan Sahn and Abraham Kabbakeh, and Photographer Ousman Diallo, shared professional insights and encouraged incoming interns to pursue excellence.
Also, Deputy Minister for Public Affairs Anthony Kesselly provided an in-depth overview of the program’s structure, goals, and expected outcomes, describing it as a transformative learning platform for aspiring communication professionals.
Presidential Press Secretary Kula Fofana closed the event by expressing gratitude to guests, partners, and prospective interns.
She assured attendees that the selection process would reflect the program’s values of transparency and integrity.
“This is more than an internship; it is an investment in the next generation of public communicators,” Fofana emphasized.
The Executive Mansion Communication Internship Program 2025–2026 aims to empower young Liberians through experiential learning in strategic communication, media engagement, and digital storytelling.
It marks a new chapter in strengthening public communication in Liberia, rooted in collaboration, ethical leadership, and the pursuit of innovation.
