Bong County, Liberia – ArcelorMittal Liberia, through its Training Academy (AMLTA), has launched a new program in Bong County aimed at strengthening literacy and numeracy skills among residents of concession communities. The initiative is designed to better prepare job applicants and vocational trainees to complete the Academy’s aptitude tests and seize future employment opportunities.

The program was officially launched on September 11 at Greenhill Quarry in Bong County, bringing together AMLTA Training Manager Victor Loubser, community relations officers, local chiefs, and 22 selected applicants.

According to Mr. Loubser, assessments conducted among Liberian applicants revealed that many could not meet entry requirements due to limited numeracy and literacy skills. To close this gap, AMLTA has developed an eight-week training program covering English, Mathematics, Job Readiness, Business, and Emotional Intelligence, with regular testing to track participants’ progress.

“This training aligns with the directive of ArcelorMittal Global Mining CEO, Kleber Silva, that people in fence line communities should be prioritized for employment and training opportunities,” Loubser explained. “Our operations must directly benefit those most impacted. This program is about preparing young people to be ready for their chosen career paths. Beneficiaries should take it seriously, because successful completion will place them in a stronger position to access opportunities in the future.”

In partnership with the African Bible College University, AMLTA previously trained teachers who are now deployed across Bong, Nimba, and Grand Bassa Counties to lead the program. Applicants are grouped into three levels, P1, P2, and P3, based on initial assessments. Each trainee will undergo eight weeks of lessons, with the possibility of advancing to higher levels depending on their performance.

Currently in Bong County, three centers, Greenhill Quarry, Gbarta Public School, and Rock Crusher, are hosting the training. At Gbarta Public School, trainer Ruth Kamara reported steady progress, noting that while a few participants struggled initially, all 24 trainees are now on track. At Rock Crusher, trainer Tony F. Gborlorwolo observed that although attendance was weak at first, participants are now showing consistent improvement.

In Nimba County, the program is simultaneously running in Lugbehyee, Gbapa, Zolowee, and Zuluyee, where similar positive outcomes are being recorded.

Through this initiative, ArcelorMittal Liberia is not only tackling immediate literacy and numeracy challenges but also building a foundation for sustainable livelihoods, skills development, and employment opportunities in its concession communities.