By Fatou Bojang
During an event at Gambia College in Brikama on Saturday, the transformation of Gambia College into the University of Education of The Gambia (UEG) was announced. In collaboration with Daan Wa Group Australia, this initiative brought together a diverse audience, including the Gambia College Class of 2004, academic staff, teachers, students, and community members. The focus was on enhanced teacher training and educational reform to meet society’s evolving demands.
The conference featured esteemed keynote speakers, including Prof. Pierre Gomez (Minister of Higher Education), Hon. Halifa Sallah (Former MP), Alkali M. Dibba (Peace Network Country Representative), and Ebrima Sarr, PhD (member of Daan Wa Group).
Attendees participated in panel discussions and workshops on education and social enterprise, engaged in networking sessions, and explored industry exhibitions that showcased The Gambia College’s evolution into a world-class education research institution.
This event aimed to foster connections and collaboration to promote academic excellence and highlight the importance of a highly trained teaching workforce in national development.
During the conference, Abubacarr Jallow, Principal of Gambia College, reflected on the institution’s critical role in shaping generations of educators and community leaders. He noted that transforming from a college to a university signifies a commitment to providing quality education that aligns with national aspirations and the global educational landscape.
Prof. Pierre Gomez emphasized the need for innovative pedagogy and curriculum development, advocating for education that prepares students for exams and real-world problem-solving. He proposed a three-pillar strategy to enhance teacher quality, focusing on innovative teaching methods, continuous professional development for educators, and community engagement to ensure inclusivity in education.
Dr. Abibatou Drammeh, Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, underscored the importance of research and publication in academia, stating these elements are crucial for advancing knowledge and addressing societal challenges. She highlighted the need for a collective commitment among faculty and students to enhance research efforts that drive national development. “As The Gambia embarks on this transformative educational journey, our commitment to improving teacher training and fostering a culture of research will be pivotal in shaping the future of education in the country,” she added.
Hon. Halifa Sallah stressed the importance of understanding education as a science that goes beyond mere learning. He called for a holistic approach to teacher training, emphasizing the need for educators to be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to address students’ diverse needs. He urged stakeholders to invest heavily in education, noting that a well-trained teaching workforce is essential for the nation’s development goals.
