Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) has issued a clarification reminding all private schools, parents, guardians, and sponsors that school fees in The Gambia must be paid in the local currency, the Gambian Dalasi.

This clarification comes after reports of some private schools requesting payment of school fees in foreign currency, particularly in euros or US dollars. MoBSE emphasized that this practice is against the regulations and policies set by the government.

In a statement released this week, the Ministry emphasized that no private school is permitted to impose or demand payment of school fees in foreign currency.

It noted that while the Dalasi is the legal tender for domestic transactions, payment in foreign currency may only occur voluntarily at the request of a parent, guardian, or sponsor, and with explicit agreement from the school.

According to MoBSE, the directive aligns with The Gambia’s monetary and foreign exchange regulations, which require the use of the Dalasi for domestic transactions and aim to ensure uniformity and transparency in financial dealings.

The ministry further urged all private schools to comply with the policy to avoid confusion and protect the interests of families and sponsors.