Gambiaj.com – (BAFULOTO) – The German Embassy in The Gambia has recently inaugurated the Steinweg Upper Basic and Technical School to foster and enhance effective skills and technical education in the country. The inaugural ceremony, held at the school grounds in Bafuloto, funded by the German Schmitz Foundation, also featured the laying of the foundation stone for an Electrical Workshop for students. The event included a familiarization tour with the German Ambassador.

The primary objective of the school is to provide vocational training to young people, equipping them with technical skills and creating opportunities for employment in various industries. The partnership between the German Embassy and the school is expected to contribute significantly to the economic development of The Gambia by producing a skilled workforce. The commitment to improving technical education in the country is commendable and is anticipated to have a lasting impact on both the youth and the community.

As a non-profit institution, the school offers courses for both genders, including tailoring, wood and metal work, construction, welding, agriculture, catering, fisheries, poultry farming, IT classes, mathematics, English, and more.

In their first year, all students are instructed in all subjects. As they develop their interests, they are free to choose which technical subject they would like to pursue in depth. During their second year, they specialise in one area, developing their technical and practical skills and refining them. When you see the dedication and happiness with which these students are learning, there is no doubt that this is a successful model for upper basic education in The Gambia.

In his welcoming remarks, Ebrima Felix Sambou, Principal of Steinweg Upper Basic and Technical School, expressed gratitude for the initiative, highlighting its importance in equipping young Gambians with vocational skills. He noted that fostering vocational training contributes to national development and positively impacts the lives of skilled workers.

Detlef Steinweg, the school’s proprietor, emphasized the wide range of courses offered, catering to students not only after grade 12 but also after grade 6. He expressed optimism about the school’s growth and its potential contribution to development. Steinweg also noted the need for additional teachers in practical areas, despite the school’s modern training tools, and called on Gambians to support the school in achieving its goals.

Representing the Ministry of Education, Lamin Fatajo, Regional Education Director for Region 2 West, described the school as a significant advancement in education. He stated that education is relevant and meaningful only if it serves the population’s needs, adding that technical training contributes to national development and sustains the economy.

Fatajo also highlighted the importance of female participation in vocational training, suggesting that it will motivate more girls to join and equip themselves with essential skills. He emphasized that the knowledge gained will remain within the country, benefiting the entire community.

Sainabou Manneh, a student at the school, shared her positive experience, noting that the school has had a significant impact on her life by providing opportunities for future success. She expressed hope that her pursuit of a career in metalwork would challenge societal beliefs and demonstrate that women can excel in various technical fields.