IPNEWS: Fourteen (14) staff members of the National Elections Commission (NEC) have been certified following the successful completion of an intensive ICT training series in Network Administration and Security.
The program, based on the globally recognized CISCO curriculum, culminated in a certification ceremony held at Stella Maris Polytechnic University in Monrovia.
This training is part of NEC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity in secure networking, data management, and cybersecurity, aligning with international best practices for electoral management bodies.
Speaking during the ceremony, Phillip I. Toe, Deputy Director of NEC’s Data Center Section, highlighted the foundational concepts covered, emphasizing the critical role of IP addressing and networking infrastructure in modern electoral operations.
“Every communication between a computer and another device is facilitated through an IP address, through interconnected networks. For systems to communicate effectively, servers, routers, and switches must work together. This training helps us better understand how these devices interact to support NEC’s operations,” Mr. Toe explained.
James Dogbey, NEC’s Director of Information Technology, underscored the strategic relevance of the training.
“This training takes NEC closer to operating at higher layers in industry standards. It will significantly improve encryption, end-to-end visibility, and real-time monitoring of data traffic between headquarters and field offices. For the first time, we will be able to clearly track how data moves across our systems, strengthening security and accountability,” he said.
He further noted that the training equips NEC staff to make informed decisions about future ICT infrastructure investments and enhances the Commission’s ability to take full ownership of its data center operations.
Participants shared positive reflections on the program:
- Edna Freeman, Deputy IT Director, described the training as highly practical and impactful:
“We worked extensively with Cisco Packet Tracer, switching, and real network activities. The training has added tremendous value to our understanding and practical skills, particularly in connecting and managing switches.” - Jickson Freeman, from the Electronic Broadcasting Section, emphasized the global credibility of Cisco-based systems:
“Cisco Systems are globally trusted for high-level security, including during major international events. Completing this training positions NEC to deploy secure, high-end networking solutions that can protect electoral systems from intrusion.”
Delivering closing remarks, NEC Chairperson Madam Davidetta Browne Lansanah stressed teamwork and continuous learning as critical to effective network management.
“No one here works alone. Networking requires collaboration and shared responsibility to ensure systems are not only installed but also function effectively. This training strengthens team building and peer support, ensuring that knowledge is shared and applied across the institution.”
She expressed appreciation to UNDP and development partners for supporting NEC’s digital transformation and professional development.
“This is the first level. We look forward to the second, the third, and even higher academic and professional achievements. Thank you to UNDP and the development partners for supporting NEC’s digital transformation and staff development.”
The ICT Training Series was supported through the UNDP Liberia Electoral Support Project, reinforcing NEC’s commitment to secure, credible, and technology-driven electoral processes in Liberia.
The project promotes inclusive, transparent, and accountable governance and is managed by UNDP in partnership with UN Women, the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy, and NEC, with support from the European Union, Ireland, and Sweden.
