By: Tijan S. Touray
The Gambia Teachers Union (GTU), through the Region One Central Committee, has presented a certificate of appreciation to the Minister Youth and Sports Bakary Y. Badjie, in recognition and appreciation of his contributions towards Region One teachers’ tournament last year.
Minister Badgie, during the presentation of the certificate at the Ministry’s premises, extolled the organization for the gesture, saying his ministry is committed to supporting sports activities.
“We were not expecting anything. We do it because it is our responsibility as youth and sports, and as a government to support young people, teachers, with anything that has to deal with the development of sports in the country,” Badgie said.
According to him, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, together with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education are historically seen as a giant in schools and sports, citing that the school level is a stage where children are nurtured to become great sports persons, and there is where they would realize their potentials to become professionals.
He assured the Ministry’s commitment to improving the infrastructure of sports in schools, promoting sports activities as part of extracurricular activities, and extending support in disciplines like athletics, basketball, and volleyball respectively.
He promised the organization that he would institutionalize the support and to make it annual, emphasizing the importance of partnership in such activities.
Bubacarr Jadama, chairman of the organizing committee at Region One central committee asserted that organizing a maiden football tournament is not an easy task but they are grateful to complete it as expected.
He pointed out that the Ministry of Youth and Sports intervention made the tournament successful, as the fifty thousand from the ministry covered some areas in the tournament including logistics, winners, and runner-ups.
“Part of the money was used to finance our players when it comes to buying boots for the outstanding players. Initially, we were struggling, and we thought it was not going to be possible but when the minister said anytime you knock at our doors, we will be available, and that is what exactly happened. As a result we used the money wisely to help us carry the tournament,” said Jadama.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the continuation of more teachers’ engagement and expressed gratitude to the minister for his timely support.
Alasan Sey, sports desk at the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education and representative of the Permanent Secretary emphasized that his Ministry in collaboration with other sports-related fields can change the narratives of sporting activities in The Gambia, assuring the ministry’s continuous support in sports and education.
