By: Fatou Krubally
President Adama Barrow has unveiled a series of education and skills development reforms designed to align academic training with labour market demands and promote national self-reliance.
Speaking at the 17th convocation of the University of The Gambia, Barrow said his government’s Recovery-focused National Development Plan (YIRIWA 2023-2027) and the TVET Policy (2021-2030) are centred on building a skilled, innovative workforce that can drive The Gambia’s growth.
“Our focus is to equip young Gambians with the right skills to meet the demands of today’s economy,” Barrow said. “We are building an education system that produces job creators and not just job seekers.”
Highlighting major achievements, the President announced the completion of the Mansakonko Multi-purpose Skills Centre and the Centre of Excellence for Agri-business in Pacharr, Central River Region South. He said these facilities are designed to provide technical and entrepreneurial training to support key economic sectors.
Barrow further disclosed that the University of Science, Engineering, and Technology (USET) will soon inaugurate its new state-of-the-art campus in Brikama to train engineers in mechanical, civil, and electronic disciplines.
The president also confirmed the transition of Gambia College into the University of Education, and the Management Development Institute (MDI) into the Civil Service University, broadening opportunities in STEM fields and public administration.
In addition, Barrow revealed that Madrassah education is being integrated into mainstream tertiary and higher education with an emphasis on technical and scientific disciplines.
“These reforms are part of our broader strategy to ensure no Gambian youth is left behind, especially in the new economy where skills and innovation are the keys to success,” Barrow said.
He urged graduates to embrace entrepreneurship, innovation, and a spirit of nation-building as the country enters “a new phase of development”.
