By: Isatou Sarr
The Gambia marked a significant milestone in higher education yesterday with the joint inauguration of three higher education financing boards.
These are: the Student Revolving Loan Scheme (SRLS), the Tertiary and Higher Education Trust (THET) Fund, and the National Research and Innovation Fund (NRIF). The ceremony was held at the MoHERST Conference Hall in Kanifing.
Dr. Jorjoh Ndure-Tambedou, Executive Director of the THET Fund, described the initiative as “a driver of digital transformation and educational innovation, strengthening the foundation to open doors for persons with disabilities so that no talent goes unnoticed and no dream is left behind. This is not theory, it is action. Within the next ninety days, a plan has already been submitted, and the fund will move from paper to practice.”
Dr. Ernest Abubee, Chairperson of the Governing Board of SRLS, assured the government and people of The Gambia that the board and management of the scheme will discharge their responsibilities with commitment, dedication, and hard work. He highlighted that the SRLS provides a critical opportunity for young Gambians to access higher education and pursue academic and professional excellence. He also appealed to individuals, the private sector, civil society organizations, Gambians in the diaspora, and development partners to support the initiative, emphasizing that “through genuine partnership, we can make a significant difference in the lives of present and future generations.”
Professor Pere Gomez, Minister of Higher Education, hailed the event as a landmark for the country, describing it as a “cornerstone for a future where no Gambian student is left behind due to financial constraints; a future where our universities are engines of development and innovation; a future where Gambian minds pioneer solutions to Gambian problems.”
During the ceremony, Sir Farimang Saho was officially nominated to serve as the President of the Governing Board of the Coordinating Group of Industry (CGI), representing the private sector in supporting the advancement of higher education financing in the country.
Acting under the authority of the President of the Republic, Minister Gomez officially declared the three governing boards inaugurated and fully constituted, marking the commencement of their mandates. “Let the work begin,” he said, calling on all members to actively implement programs that will improve access to quality tertiary education across The Gambia.
The inauguration of these three boards, according to officials, underscores the government’s commitment to creating sustainable pathways for higher education and fostering research, innovation, and private sector engagement in the development of the country’s human capital.