The Manager of ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Training Academy, Dawie Loots, has called on companies to adopt deliberate affirmative actions that promote the inclusion of women in industrial and technical fields.
Speaking during a panel discussion held in Ganta on April 21, 2026, to mark the International Day of Women in Industry, Mr. Loots said meaningful inclusion can only be achieved when companies actively remove barriers that continue to prevent women from entering the sector.
The discussion focused on practical steps companies can take to encourage women’s participation in technical and vocational careers that have traditionally been dominated by men.
Mr. Loots noted that long-standing social perceptions about women’s abilities have discouraged many from pursuing vocational skills and industrial careers. He acknowledged that he once shared the belief that women were not suited for technical and industrial work, but said experience had changed his perspective.
“Women can do exactly what men do,” he said, stressing the need for a shift in mindset across society and within the private sector.
According to him, companies must strengthen internal policies that promote inclusiveness and equal opportunity. He said recruitment frameworks should be reviewed where necessary to ensure women are able to compete fairly for positions and occupy roles across industrial institutions.
He cited an example from an exercise conducted during the panel discussion, explaining that affirmative advocacy led to greater female participation. Without deliberate intervention, he said, male participants would likely have dominated the panel and reduced opportunities for women’s representation.
Mr. Loots also encouraged companies to create internship opportunities for young people, especially women, even when such initiatives require financial investment and may not deliver immediate returns. He said internships provide exposure, practical learning and a clearer understanding of industrial environments, helping young women define their professional aspirations.
He further emphasized that governments, companies, advocacy groups and civil society organizations all have important roles to play in advancing women’s participation. At the same time, he said women seeking opportunities must demonstrate commitment, seriousness and professionalism in order to build confidence and trust in the roles they pursue.
