By Fatou Bojang
The Gambia Government, through the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (MoHERST), has awarded fully funded scholarships to 18 lecturers for doctoral and master’s degrees at Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria.
The recipients are from the University of The Gambia, Civil Service University, and the University of Education Gambia. MoHERST’s Deputy Permanent Secretary, Muttarr Darboe, highlighted the importance of investing in educators to shape the future of The Gambia during the award ceremony.
The Honorable Minister of Higher Research, Science, and Technology, Prof. Pierre Gomez, announced a significant scholarship initiative fully funded by the Gambian government for studies at Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria. The scholarship package covers full tuition, with stipends of $850 for doctoral students and $500 for master’s students, along with return airfare.
Despite a limited budget of 0.8% for the year, the government prioritizes these awards to enhance higher education, reflecting a commitment to socio-economic development. Minister Gomez also linked the initiative to national objectives and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly emphasizing Goals 4 and 9, which focus on quality education and innovation.
Lamin BT Sanyang, one of the scholarship beneficiaries, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of all recipients. “Please convey our gratitude to the president and the entire government. We are grateful for the steps that they have taken to improve quality,” he remarked.
