The weeklong training workshop on customs and communication began on Monday in Ganta, gathering 57 customs officials nationwide.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening the technical capacity, professionalism, and communication skills of customs personnel to meet both national expectations and international standards.
The training was opened by the assistant commissioner of customs for technical services, William L. Buku, who described the session as a refresher course designed to keep officers up to date with current developments in the customs field.
He emphasized that all attendees should fully concentrate on the training, underscoring its significance for improving the effectiveness and reliability of Liberia’s customs activities.
During his comments, Buku highlighted the importance of customs officials upholding a strong sense of professionalism and honesty.
He emphasized that customs officials should maintain an appearance that respects the integrity of their role and aids in dispelling common unfavorable views held by the general populace.
Buku likewise urged officials to utilize this training as a chance to form connections, exchange stories, and gain insights from each other, thereby promoting stronger solidarity and collaboration among different customs offices.
The primary emphasis of the training is on the growing influence of technology within customs operations. Buku highlighted the critical necessity for officials to adopt digital instruments and computerized systems, particularly since customs procedures throughout the ECOWAS region are becoming increasingly automated.
He highlighted that as part of the regional group, Liberia needs to adjust its customs procedures to stay in line with these modifications for better efficiency and integration.
The training will cover how to utilize and apply automated systems like ASYCUDA, which plays a key role in submitting declarations and managing payments.
The deputy chief additionally highlighted that discipline serves as the bedrock for any effective customs organization.
He encouraged the officers to treat the training as a priority, actively engaging in all theoretical and practical components, and to start each day eager for new learning experiences, emphasizing that acquiring knowledge always yields benefits.
The participants will explore various essential subjects related to their positions, such as the customs attire standards, comprehensive border control strategies, categorization and assessment techniques, staying calm when faced with stress, approaches for calculating taxes, along with an examination of high-level border protocols and practical guidelines.
The training will include the latest updates on excise duties and GST rates, as well as their application in day-to-day activities.
A crucial part of the training includes a communication module led by the LRA’s Communications, Media and Public Affairs Department.
Under the leadership of CMPA Manager Danicius Kaihenneh Sengbeh, this course aims to enhance the communication abilities of customs officials, focusing specifically on how they interact with the general public and members of the press.
Sengbeh highlighted that robust communication is essential for carrying out their responsibilities efficiently, particularly in demanding or difficult settings.
Police officers will receive training in proficiently handling real-time radio communications, maintaining professionalism under public examination, and efficiently conveying messages during challenging or delicate scenarios.
The primary objective of the communication training is to improve public interaction and foster confidence in the LRA’s customs procedures.
Provided by
GAPTEKZONE
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