By: Fatoumata Joof
The Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST), Professor Pierre Gomez, has presided over the opening of a two-day Sector Review Retreat aimed at critically reviewing and refining the Draft National Research Bill, the Research Regulatory Framework, and the Research Excellence Assessment Framework (REAF).
Held at Tendaba Camp in the Lower River Region, the retreat brought together members of the Ministry’s Senior Management Team (SMT) and the Research Technical Working Group, drawn from key institutions across the country. The objective was to foster greater coordination, regulation, and synergy within The Gambia’s national research ecosystem.
In his opening remarks, Minister Gomez emphasised the timeliness and significance of the Draft National Research Bill, especially as The Gambia marks 60 years of independence. He noted that this is the first time the country is introducing a unified National Research Bill alongside comprehensive Regulatory and Ethical Frameworks for research.
“These two documents are essential for the development of a robust and well-regulated research environment in The Gambia,” he said.
Minister Gomez highlighted the innovative potential of the instruments, stating that their adoption could position The Gambia among leading West African nations with established research governance structures. He explained that the frameworks are designed to provide oversight, regulation, and guidelines for the conduct of all types of research including medical, scientific, and social while enhancing and complementing existing institutional research systems.
He added that the Draft National Research Bill promotes a coordinated approach to research governance, ensuring institutional practices align with national standards. This, he said, will contribute to a harmonised and efficient research environment across the country.
“These instruments will not only strengthen governance and regulation but will also elevate the quality and credibility of research conducted in The Gambia,” he stated.
In his conclusion, Minister Gomez expressed appreciation to all stakeholders involved in the development of the documents. He described their contributions as critical in advancing research excellence and establishing a regulatory environment that ensures accountability, ethics, and innovation in national research efforts.
