By: Fatou Krubally
The Gambia Public Procurement Authority (GPPA) recent collaboration with Kumasi Technical University signifies a groundbreaking advancement in procurement education within the Gambia.
The enrolment of 35 Gambia Public Procurement Institute (GPPI) diploma students into a degree program in Procurement and Supply Chain Management, marked a pivotal moment in the educational landscape of the country. This partnership between two esteemed institutions promises to revolutionize the training and development of procurement professionals, setting a new standard for excellence in the field.
Led by the forward-thinking vision of the Managing Director, Mr. Phoday M Jaiteh, this initiative underscores the importance of education in driving national progress and empowering career professionals. As these students are to embark on their educational journey, they carry with them the promise of a brighter future for procurement practices in the Gambia.
In his address at the ceremony celebrating the enrollment of procurement officers into the degree program at Kumasi Technical University, the Managing Director of GPPA, Mr. Phoday M Jaiteh, underscored the transformative nature of the collaboration. He stated, “This program is a game-changer in shaping the future of procurement in our country, paving the way for enhanced expertise and efficiency in procurement practices.”
Mr. Jaiteh further emphasized the pivotal role of education in driving national development, highlighting the concerted efforts of all stakeholders involved in bringing this program to fruition. He remarked, “The dedication of all individuals who contributed to the establishment of this program is truly commendable and reflects a shared commitment to advancing procurement education and practices in the Gambia.” Mr. Jaiteh’s words resonated with a sense of optimism for the future of procurement in the country, underlining the transformative potential of this educational initiative.
Mr. Ibrahim Sanyang, Director of Procurement Policy Operations, detailed the strategic decision-making process that facilitated the successful negotiation with Kumasi Technical University. Encouraging the students, he emphasized the significance of embracing change and innovation in their educational journey. Mr. Sanyang highlighted the importance of traits such as discipline, humility, and creativity, stating, “These qualities are key in the pursuit of knowledge and will drive your success in the field of procurement.” His words resonated with a call to action for the students, urging them to approach their studies with an open mind and a willingness to adapt to the evolving landscape of procurement practices.
Mr. Maurice highlighted the significance of the partnership with Kumasi Technical University, stating, “It’s a leading technical university, not only in Ghana, but in Africa here.” He emphasized the comprehensive nature of the university, comparing it to “a complete universe.” Reflecting on the negotiation process, he noted, “Through his leadership, GPBI was able to meet all the indicators required by an international university.” Discussing the tuition fees, he mentioned, “The intervention of the director general reduced the fees to $1,700 per year, making it more affordable for students.” Mr. Maurice’s dedication to quality and commitment to reform were evident in his efforts to enhance the educational opportunities for procurement professionals.
The collaboration between GPPA and Kumasi Technical University represents a significant advancement in procurement education in the Gambia. Through the visionary leadership of these individuals the program has not only provided opportunities for career professionals to excel but has also made quality education more accessible through reduced tuition fees. This commitment to excellence and affordability underscores the dedication of all involved in shaping the future of procurement practices in the country. As students embark on this educational journey, they are poised to make a positive impact in the field, driving innovation and success in the realm of procurement for years to come.
