By Adama Makasuba
Dr. Alieu Gibba, a senior lecturer at the University of The Gambia (UTG), has been a staunch advocate for the fair treatment of Gambian academic staff. Recently, he and fellow senior lecturer Dr. Matarr Njie boldly decided to walk out of the University’s disciplinary hearing, citing bias. Their courageous action was a powerful demonstration of their unwavering commitment to addressing the issue.
Dr. Gibba has criticized the university leadership, highlighting the perceived unfair treatment and punishment of Gambian Academic and Administrative Staff at UTG. He specifically pointed out delayed promotions and a lack of transparency in the promotion process, raising questions about the 2024 promotion announcements without releasing the outcome of the 2023 promotions.
According to Dr. Gibba, the promotions committee at the UTG submitted their recommendations to the Vice Chancellor in May 2023, but the promotions have yet to be made public. This delay has led to frustration among the staff and contributed to the departure of experienced personnel such as Saikou Jeng and Dr. Muhammad Lamin Sanyang. Dr. Gibba has stressed the need for change, emphasizing that the UTG belongs to everyone and that the staff continues to face challenges under the current leadership. The call for change is urgent, he emphasized.