By: Isatou Sarr
The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) has warned all private schools in The Gambia against demanding tuition fees in foreign currency, stressing that the Gambian Dalasi remains the country’s only legal tender.
In a statement issued yesterday, the ministry reminded schools, parents, guardians, and sponsors that all domestic transactions, including school fees, must be conducted in Dalasi, in line with national monetary and foreign exchange regulations.
“No private school should impose or request that parents, guardians, or sponsors pay school fees in foreign currency,” the Ministry declared. “The payment of fees in foreign currency is only permissible if it is the voluntary choice of the parent, guardian, or sponsor and where there is explicit agreement with the school.”
The Ministry said the clarification seeks to ensure transparency and uniformity in financial dealings, while protecting families and sponsors from unnecessary burdens.
It further urged all private schools to strictly adhere to the directive to avoid confusion and potential regulatory consequences.
