IPNEWS: The Executive Mansion has officially launched the Executive Mansion Communication Internship Program 2025–2026 under the theme “Building the Future of Public Communications Through Access, Integrity, and Innovation.” The launch event took place on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the Executive Pavilion on Broad Street, Monrovia.
The event was held on behalf of His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., President of the Republic of Liberia, and was attended by senior government officials, members of the media, development partners, and representatives from academic and civil society institutions.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the President, Acting Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Hon. Samuel A. Stevquoah, described the internship program as a cornerstone of the Boakai Administration’s broader agenda for youth empowerment, transparency, and professional development.
“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 further noted that the program reflects President Boakai’s commitment to promoting access, integrity, and innovation in governance, adding that “communication is the heartbeat of democracy and a vital tool for accountability and trust-building.”
Also speaking at the launch, UNDP Country Representative, Hon. Aliou Mamadou Dia, praised the Executive Mansion for its forward-thinking leadership in establishing the program. He reaffirmed UNDP’s support for initiatives that build institutional capacity and enhance public sector communication, especially among young professionals who will shape Liberia’s future.
Press Union of Liberia (PUL) President, Mr. Julius Kullie Kanubah, lauded the program as a timely and visionary initiative that strengthens the relationship between the media and government. He urged participating interns to uphold professionalism and ethical journalism, calling the initiative a “practical bridge between classroom learning and real-world communication practice.”
Mr. Samukai Konneh, representing Internews Liberia, commended the Executive Mansion’s inclusive approach, emphasizing that the initiative aligns with global efforts to promote open governance, fact-based communication, and media development. He pledged Internews’ continued partnership in supporting skills-building and mentorship for young Liberian communicators.
Acting Minister of Information, Hon. Johnny Tarkpah, expressed strong support for the program, pledging the Ministry of Information’s collaboration with the Ministry of State in ensuring its success.
Montserrado County Superintendent, Hon. Whroway Bryant, also welcomed the interns and expressed his full support for the initiative.
In separate remarks, Managing Director of the National Port Authority, Hon. Sekou Dukuly, and Unity Party National Chairman, Rev. J. Luther Tarpeh, commended the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs for its vision and pledged their institutions’ support for the program.
Veteran staff of the Executive Mansion Press Office shared reflections from their work experiences, including Videographers Johnathan Sahn and Abraham Kabbakeh, as well as Photographer Ousman Diallo.
Deputy Minister for Public Affairs, Hon. Anthony Kesselly, provided an overview of the program, outlining its objectives, structure, and expected outcomes.
In closing, Presidential Press Secretary, Ms. Kula Fofana, thanked guests, partners, and prospective interns for their participation and support. She assured the audience that the selection process will be conducted with transparency and integrity, reflecting the program’s core values.
The Executive Mansion Communication Internship Program 2025–2026 is designed to equip young Liberians with professional experience in strategic communication, media engagement, digital storytelling, and public information management within the Office of the President and other key government institutions.
The launch marks a new chapter in strengthening public communication systems in Liberia — one rooted in transparency, collaboration, and youth leadership.
