IECD Workshop Strengthens Visibility of TVET Institutions in Liberia
A two-day workshop for TVET placement officers and public relations focal points was organized in Liberia by the Institut Européen de Coopération et de Développement (IECD). It was held from August 31 to September 1, 2023, and was the first of its kind under the STRIVE Project. A total of 15 participants from 7 Vocational Training Centers, including BDOTC, Maryann Cheeseman, BWI, AVTP and MVTC, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ Communication Divisions were brought together.
The workshop was designed to strengthen the capacity of TVET institutions to promote their activities and programs to the public. Participants learned about the importance of public relations and how to develop and implement effective communication strategies. They also learned how to use social media and other tools to reach a wider audience.
One of the highlights of the workshop was the creation of Facebook accounts for each of the participating TVET institutions. This will allow the institutions to promote their activities and programs to a wider audience and to connect with potential students and employers.
The workshop was a valuable opportunity for TVET institutions in Liberia to learn from each other and to develop new skills and knowledge. The participants were all very enthusiastic about the workshop and were eager to implement what they had learned.
Why is this important?
The visibility of TVET institutions is important for a number of reasons. First, it helps to raise awareness of the benefits of TVET education and training. This can lead to an increase in the number of students enrolling in TVET programs.
Second, it helps to attract employers to TVET institutions. Employers are more likely to recruit graduates from institutions that they are familiar with and that have a good reputation.
Third, it helps to build partnerships between TVET institutions and other stakeholders, such as government agencies, businesses, and NGOs. These partnerships can play a vital role in supporting the development of TVET education and training.
How Can TVET Institutions Improve Their Visibility?
There are a number of things that TVET institutions can do to improve their visibility. Some key tips include:
Develop a strong online presence. This includes creating a website and social media accounts, and regularly updating them with fresh content.
Engage with the media. Issue press releases about your institution’s activities and programs, and invite journalists to visit your campus.
Participate in community events. This is a great way to meet potential students and employers, and to promote your institution’s activities and programs.
Network with other stakeholders. Build relationships with government agencies, businesses, and NGOs that are interested in TVET education and training.
Conclusion
The IECD workshop for TVET Public Relations Focal Points and Placement Officers was a valuable opportunity for TVET institutions in Liberia to learn from each other and to develop new skills and knowledge. The workshop participants were all very enthusiastic about the workshop and were eager to implement what they had learned.
We encourage all TVET institutions in Liberia to take steps to improve their visibility. By doing so, they can help to raise awareness of the benefits of TVET education and training, attract employers, and build partnerships with other stakeholders.