by Mariatou Ngum
The president of the Republic, His Excellency Mr. AdamaBarrow described the fundraising conference of the Muhammed Yadalieu English Arabic School (MYEAS) of building more classrooms as appropriate and strategic if one reflects on the saying of the Prophet (SAWs).
According to him, it is his understanding that funds raised through this program will be invested in constructing more classrooms to accommodate more children, thereby contributing to the government’s efforts aimed at improving literacy levels in the Gambia.
The Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, Hon. Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof read the President’s statement at the event held on Saturday at the Sir Dawda Kairaba International Conference Center.
The Islamic conference was organised by the school to raise funds to address the crucial need for additional classrooms in the school, owing to the increasing number of admissions at both the Lower and Upper Basic School levels.
Speaking on behalf of the president, Mr. Joof expressed His Excellency President Barrow’s appreciation of Haja MaimunaYadalieu Savage’s immense contribution to efforts to educate, sensitize and inform the Muslim Umma through her iconic programs on GRTS and other media.
According to him, during the last three decades, it is an indisputable fact that Haja Maimuna is a role model for women and girls, who religiously followed her activities.
“By teaching Islam and practicing it and pioneering this institution with an all-inclusive curriculum, Aja has contributed to building the human capital base of the country, and boosted the moral capital of the country, while positively participating in the economic empowerment of our people. The government of the Gambia appreciates and continues to value our close collaboration and partnership which can be further consolidated through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education where this hybrid curriculum is adequately supported, as adequately demonstrated by the mainstreaming of Islamic and Arabic education in close partnership with AMAANA,” he stated.
he said, “He further invited every one of you, irrespective of your nationality, race, gender, or ethnicity, to join hands and hearts in supporting this noble mission aimed at building more classrooms which undoubtedly will translate to “SadakhartulJaariya”. With the understanding that by constructing educational facilities like this one, we are investing in the future of our community. I have no iota of doubt that Muslims will grab this opportunity to seek a comfortable life after we depart this world,” he noted.
In conclusion, he urged everyone to embrace this opportunity to make a difference. “Let us unite under the banner of education, inspired by the teachings of our faith, and motivated by the love and concern we hold for humanity which is the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet (Peace be upon him). With your support, a brighter future awaits The Gambia, where no child is left behind, and quality education becomes a reality for all,” he said.
