IPNEWS: Ten staff members of the National Elections Commission (NEC) have completed an intensive 12-week training programme in Digital Communication, Content Development, Videography, and Social Media Management.
The training was conducted in partnership with BlueCrest University College, Liberia, and supported by the UNDP Liberia Electoral Support Project.
Launched in June, the programme aimed to strengthen NEC’s technical and strategic communication capacity to enhance voter education, public outreach, and engagement. It included eight weeks of classroom-based instruction held three times weekly, followed by a four-week on-the-job coaching phase at NEC offices.
Participants were trained in a wide range of technical areas, including the use of digital platforms for communication, graphic design, videography, and social media management—skills critical for improving NEC’s ability to engage the public and counter misinformation during electoral processes.
During the certification ceremony, NEC Chairperson Madam Davidetta Browne-Lansanah congratulated the participants for their dedication and performance throughout the programme.
“We mark not only the graduation of 10 individuals who have completed 12 weeks of rigorous training, but also a commitment to excellence and innovation in our electoral processes and public engagement. The knowledge and skills you have gained will strengthen NEC’s capacity to communicate clearly, uphold transparency, and counter misinformation as we prepare for future elections,” she said.
Dr. Srivaramangai, President of BlueCrest University College Liberia, commended the participants for their active engagement during both the classroom and practical phases.
“I congratulate the NEC students for their enthusiasm and performance throughout the programme. The on-the-job component enhanced learning retention and demonstrated the participants’ commitment to applying their new skills. I encourage them to use these digital, content development, and videography skills in their daily work,” she said.
Delivering remarks on behalf of UNDP, Mr. Stanley Kamara, Head of the Inclusive Governance and Public Institutions Pillar, praised NEC leadership for prioritizing staff development and fostering a culture of continuous learning.
“Capacity development benefits both the individual and the institution. The knowledge you have gained in videography, content creation, and social media management will stay with you throughout your career. You have earned the trust of your leadership through commitment and hard work, and this trust creates growth opportunities,” he said.
Mr. Kamara reaffirmed UNDP’s continued partnership with NEC in advancing innovation, transparency, and institutional growth. He also confirmed ongoing support to NEC in upgrading its digital platforms, including its website and other communication tools, to ensure the sustainability of training outcomes.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Ms. Elsie Yarkpah expressed gratitude to UNDP, BlueCrest University College, and NEC leadership for the opportunity.
“Before this training, many of us were not familiar with graphic arts or videography. We now have hands-on experience in designing visuals and producing videos for voter education. These skills are already being applied in our daily work, making our communication efforts more effective and engaging,” she said.
The beneficiaries of the training included six staff from NEC’s Communications Section, two live broadcast technicians, and two ICT staff from the Data Center Section.
The Liberia Electoral Support Project supports national institutions and processes to promote inclusive, transparent, and accountable governance. The project is managed by UNDP and implemented in partnership with UN Women, the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy, and the National Elections Commission, with support from the European Union, Ireland, and Sweden.
