Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – At the latest quarterly Presidential Delivery Forum, held on Wednesday at the State House in Banjul, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MOBSE) presented a comprehensive update on the state of basic and secondary education in The Gambia. The presentation, led by Permanent Secretary Louis Moses Mendy, outlined significant progress in infrastructure, education quality, and human resource development.
The forum focused on the achievements and ongoing efforts within the education sector, with particular emphasis on improvements in access to education in underserved communities. PS Mendy acknowledged the vital contributions of donor partners, such as MRC Holland, the World Bank, and other international agencies, in enhancing educational opportunities across the country.
Since 2017, under the coordination of Mrs. Henrietta Sonko, MRC Holland has supplied thousands of school furniture pieces, over 2,000 computers, and office equipment. They have also constructed and renovated classrooms, teachers’ quarters, toilets, and kitchens nationwide. Their efforts include the establishment of the first Regional Education College in Basse and a state-of-the-art science laboratory in Kaur, aimed at motivating teachers to serve in rural areas.
The presentation also highlighted MOBSE’s commitment to inclusive education, as the ministry has supported 17 Islamic and Arabic Centres while promoting sustainability through gardening projects. Additionally, over 2,000 students have been enrolled under the Second Chance Education Policy, offering opportunities to those who previously left the school system, with several students advancing to higher education.
Despite the success stories, MOBSE pointed out several challenges, including delays in project implementation and administrative hurdles. These issues were flagged as areas requiring attention to further accelerate progress.
In response to the presentation, President Adama Barrow expressed his gratitude for the ministry’s efforts and the continuous support from donor partners. “We are proud of our partnership with MRC Holland,” the President remarked, acknowledging Mrs. Sonko’s role in coordinating the foundation’s support. He also lauded the ongoing initiatives that are helping the country meet its education development goals.
The forum was coordinated by the Ministry of Public Service’s Delivery Department, with Vice President Muhammed B.S. Jallow, Minister Baboucarr Bouy, and other key stakeholders in attendance. The meeting underscored both the advancements made in education and the work ahead to overcome obstacles and continue improving the sector.
