Cabinet has on Friday approved a bill for the transformation of the Management Development Institute (MDI) into a University. The government aims for MDI to be the driving force behind performance and reform in the public service.

Aaccording to Pierre Gomez, Minister of Higher Education, the goal is to adapt MDI to civil service-related tasks and functions essential for The Gambia’s development.

“The reform will enable MDI to equip Gambians in the civil service with the necessary skills and set new standards for civil servants transitioning between career levels,” as recently revealed by Professor Pierre Gomez. He disclosed that MDI will play a pivotal role in propelling the metamorphosis of civil service reforms.

To address this, the Ministry of Higher Education has formed a committee to work on MDI’s conversion to a civil service university. The group developed proposals for the transition after gathering input from stakeholders across all sectors. Creating a comprehensive curriculum and forming alliances with relevant organizations and government bodies are among the committee’s recommendations.

Similarly, the draft National Research Policy (2024–2029), the National Research and Innovation Fund Bill 2024, and the Tertiary and Higher Education Trust Fund Bill 2024 have all been approved by the government. This will significantly contribute to establishing methods for long-term financing of tertiary and higher education in The Gambia, benefiting future generations.

Pierre Gomez and his colleagues insist on emphasizing support for research, innovation, and entrepreneurial programs in The Gambia through these policy statements and instruments. He praised the executive for approving these documents on time