Monrovia, Liberia – Two employees of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia have returned to the country after taking part in a major international climate change training in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Victoria Jones, Head Inspector for the EPA’s Compliance and Enforcement Department in Margibi County, and Timothy R. Yoko, Administrative Assistant and Chief of Office Staff to the Executive Director, represented Liberia at the two-week program held from May 19 to 30, 2025.

The training, titled “Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation: Pathways for Sustainable Development,” took place at the Environmental Science Research Center, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University. It brought together participants from around the world to share ideas and solutions for tackling climate change.

The course included lectures, workshops, and field visits to successful Thai projects in smart farming and renewable energy. Participants learned how to calculate greenhouse gas emissions, build local climate action plans, and design policies suited to their home countries. On the final day, each team presented a draft adaptation policy to apply back home.

Speaking after their return, the two staff met with EPA Executive Director, Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, and thanked him for making their participation possible.

Victoria Jones expressed deep appreciation and said, “Dr. Yarkpawolo, I bless God for you. You are a true leader. I’ve worked with the EPA since 2007, and this is my first time traveling for a training. I remember at our workshop in Nimba County, I raised the issue of staff capacity building, and you promised we would benefit. You kept your word.”

She also praised his leadership style, recalling how he often let others eat first during the Nimba event. “That is true leadership,” she added.

Timothy Yoko also thanked the Executive Director and described the trip as fruitful. “We made a strong presentation on behalf of the EPA and the country. It was a proud moment,” he said.

In response, Dr. Yarkpawolo welcomed the two staff members back and thanked them for representing Liberia well. “These are the kinds of things we will continue to do. Staff capacity building is a top priority,” he said. “We want every EPA employee to have a chance at opportunities like this.”

He encouraged both employees to share what they learned by training other staff, helping to build a stronger EPA and better climate response for Liberia.

As one of the countries most affected by climate change, Liberia stands to benefit greatly from such international exposure and learning.