By: Haruna Kuyateh
Educationalists from Gambia namely Jokadou, Nuimi and counterpart in Senegal recently concluded a three day cross border schools exchange visit to strengthen Senegambia integration.
The visit is meant to strengthen Senegambia integration was held in Medina Modoum or formally Bantanding Wollof Basic Cycle School in the North Bank region.
The link was established in 2001 by late Famara Colley head teacher of the school and Keur Alasan Jallow Primary school in Senegal to help boost academic performance and Integration.
The three visit exposed students to establish friendship, participate in quiz and debate competition and football match.
Ebrima Njie Principal of Medina Modoum Basic Cycle School described the significant of the link, as promoting integration through education and culture as it would contribute towards student’s improvement.
He noted that the link started with two schools and now it has 17 schools, 10 border schools of Gambia and seven in Senegal.
Monsieur Musa Jallow head of Senegalese delegation thanked their Gambian counterparts for their commitment in advancing integration among students.
He pointed out that authorities in Senegal value the significant of establishing the link, following a football clashes between Gambia and Senegal in 2004.
According to him, the link would further strengthen and compliment the effort of President Adama Barrow and Mackay Sall in fostering collaboration and trade.
He revealed that plan are underway to start cross border lecture to students and teachers in both countries to learn English and French to contribute to attainment of quality education.
Pa Modou Sallah, Cluster Monitor of Regional Education Office Kerewan also described the partnership as important, noting that MoBSE value the move as it will contribute to attainment of quality education and foster cooperation.
Dampha Kanyi chairman of cross border link expressed satisfaction on level of commitment demonstrated by authorities in Senegal and Gambia.
The event was attended by cross section of communities and punctuated by scout band. The exchange visits has enable student to visit one another during vacation.