Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) has moved to clarify growing public concerns over teacher scholarships, pledging to enforce stricter control measures to curb unauthorized absences and safeguard the quality of education in The Gambia.
In a statement issued this week, the ministry acknowledged mounting complaints about some teachers abandoning their classrooms without approval to pursue higher education. Such practices, it said, leave students neglected and compromise the integrity of the education system.
“These unorganized and indiscriminate actions undermine the quality of education and the trust placed in the teaching profession,” the ministry noted.
To address this challenge, MoBSE said its ongoing education reforms are deliberately designed to close loopholes that have long been exploited by some teachers.
The Ministry emphasized that while the new rules may be met with resistance, they are necessary to restore accountability and ensure students’ learning is not disrupted.
At the heart of the reforms is a renewed focus on teacher empowerment. According to MoBSE, scholarships, training programs, and professional development opportunities will continue to be available but strictly on the basis of merit, transparency, and equity.
“We remain dedicated to supporting deserving teachers,” the statement read. “Scholarships and training will be awarded in a transparent and equitable manner, without favoritism or abuse.”
MoBSE further urged teachers, parents, and the wider public to support the reform agenda, stressing that effective teacher management and sustainable control of the sector are vital for national development.
“Meaningful change often faces opposition,” the ministry added. “But we call on every genuine Gambian who cares about the future of our children to appreciate our commitment to maintaining accountability and strengthening the education sector.”
The Ministry assured that it will continue working with stakeholders to create an environment where teachers are supported professionally, students enjoy uninterrupted learning, and the system is positioned for sustainable growth and excellence.
