By: Fatou Krubally
The Nigerian International School in The Gambia on Friday received science laboratory equipment worth D533,000 from the Royal Father of Nigerians in The Gambia, Oba Moshood Kolawole Babalola Abolade (Ariwajoye I), to strengthen science education and improve practical learning.
The donation was made during the school’s annual Speech and Prize-Giving Day ceremony attended by diplomats, education stakeholders, parents, students and members of the Nigerian community.
Presenting the equipment, Oba Abolade said the donation reflected his commitment to the development of the school and the education of its students.
He recalled being among those who helped establish the institution in 2011 and expressed satisfaction with its progress over the years.
The Oba encouraged students to remain focused on their studies and pursue their ambitions with determination and hard work.
The donated equipment, comprising 131 science-related items, was provided through the Abolade Rural Foundation and is expected to enhance practical science teaching at the school.
Representing the Nigerian High Commission in Banjul, Head of Chancery Musa Owoicho Amali commended the school’s management for its achievements and praised the students for their performance during the ceremony.
He described the school as a symbol of the longstanding relations between The Gambia and Nigeria, noting that it serves both Gambian and Nigerian students.
Amali also urged students to remain committed to their education and avoid drug abuse, warning of the dangers of substance misuse among young people.
The President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Gambia, Dr. Great Akah Ottudouma, reaffirmed his organisation’s commitment to supporting quality education and infrastructure development at the school.
School administrators and parents welcomed the donation, describing it as a significant contribution to improving science education.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of prizes and awards to outstanding students, while the school’s principal, Sunday Imolorhe, thanked partners, parents and members of the community for their continued support.