YesLiberia Students Explore the Heart of National Service With A Visit Visit to the Liberia’s National Police Headquarters (LNP)
The four walls of a classroom can only teach so much. Real education begins when knowledge meets experience—when students step out of textbooks and into the real world. On August 29, 2025, YesLiberia brought this belief to life for a group of selected high school and college students from across Monrovia. Instead of sitting behind desks, these young learners walked the halls of the Liberia National Police (LNP) Headquarters, where they gained firsthand insights into law enforcement, civic duty, and leadership.
A Purposeful Beginning
The day began with precision and purpose. By 7 a.m., YesLiberia staff and students gathered at ELWA Junction for a morning briefing. Expectations were clear—discipline, respect, and engagement were non-negotiable. High school students arrived in uniforms, while others dressed neatly in jeans and white shirts, symbolizing unity. Identification tags were distributed, fostering both professionalism and belonging as they prepared to represent their schools and communities.
First Impressions and Open Minds
Upon arrival, the students were warmly greeted by a representative from the LNP’s Communications Department. For many, stepping into the headquarters—a building they had only seen from afar—was a defining moment. Initial nervousness at the sight of officers and equipment soon gave way to curiosity and admiration as they began to understand the depth of the institution’s role in national peace and security.
Inside the Workings of the Police Force
The students embarked on an eye-opening tour of several key divisions within the LNP:
1. Professional Standards Division (PSD): Upholds accountability and ethical conduct within the force.
2. Police Support Unit (PSU): Manages crowd control, provides VIP protection, and reinforces regular officers.
3. Emergency Response Unit (ERU): Responds rapidly to high-risk crimes and emergencies.
They also visited the Conference Room, where major policy discussions occur, and the Criminal Investigations Division (CID), where they learned how detectives methodically build cases—dispelling myths shaped by television dramas.
Conversations That Changed Perspectives
One of the most powerful moments of the day came during an open dialogue with LNP officers. Students were surprised to learn that many officers are highly educated—some with master’s degrees and even PhDs. Assistant Commissioner of Police Samuel Ford, who is currently pursuing his second Master’s degree, spoke passionately about leadership, ethics, and the shared responsibility between citizens and police officers.
Students asked thoughtful questions about crime reporting, Miranda rights in Liberia, and how to file a police case properly. One key takeaway stood out: no citizen should ever pay to file a police report. This knowledge empowered students to become advocates for fairness and accountability in their communities.
ACP Ford emphasized the need for mutual respect between citizens and law enforcement, noting that a safe and just Liberia depends on cooperation, not confrontation.
Student Reflections and Lasting Impact
The visit transformed perceptions and inspired a sense of civic pride.
“I was surprised to learn that the police is actually my friend,” said Sarah Koffeh, who also suggested future visits to institutions like the National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI).
“I never realized how organized and complex the LNP is,” shared Kelvin Moses.
“I learned the roles of PSU and ERU in controlling riots and serious crimes—they support each other like a team,” reflected James Major.
Supervised by Mr. Augustus B. Abayomi-Cole II and Ms. D. Princess Karbar, the trip brought together 20 students, 7 volunteers, and 2 videographers. At the closing ceremony, top participants were recognized with certificates, and Inspector General Gregory Coleman received a Certificate of Appreciation for the LNP’s ethical partnership and commitment to youth engagement.
A Call to Keep the Momentum
Students overwhelmingly agreed that such experiences should reach more young people across Liberia. Exposure to national institutions like the LNP fosters not only respect but also a deeper understanding of how citizens can contribute to building a safer, more just society.
As one participant expressed, “Education shouldn’t stop at the classroom door—it should extend to the very institutions that shape our nation.”
This visit to the Liberia National Police Headquarters was more than a field trip—it was a bridge.
A bridge between youth and law enforcement, between learning and leadership, and between today’s students and tomorrow’s changemakers.
Our hope is that you can help sponsor the next trip. Sponsors and donors have the opportunities to work with us to determine and plan where the students should visit next. Options include National Museum of Liberia, University of Liberia, Liberia Learning Hub, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, Liberia Intellectual Property Office, Capitol Hill – House of Representatives & Supreme Court, Sapo National Park, iCampus Liberia, and Providence Island. Don’t miss out on this opportunity. You help sponsor or donate towards the next trip today or ask people in your network to support our efforts .
