1st Gambian Enrichment Programme in Chemistry for SSS held

The Foundation for the Advancement of Chemistry Education (FACE) The Gambia in collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) recently organised the first Gambian Enrichment Programme in Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools 2013/14 academic year at the Regional Education Conference Hall in Kanifing.

The event drew participants from senior secondary schools in Region 1, and resources persons from the University of The Gambia and American International University provided students with a unique opportunity to experience Chemistry beyond their regular classrooms.

It was also meant to enable the participants develop laboratory skills and scientific thinking abilities through practical activities designed by FACE to stimulate interest in Chemistry.

Speaking at the event, Anthony Ogiribo, FACE’s Executive Director extended profound appreciation and gratitude to the heads of schools, chemistry teachers, students and the Gambia government for their support.

Mr Ogiribo used the forum to highlight upcoming events/activities for the year, while also imploring on students to participate in the 1st Gambian Chemistry Olympiad Competition to be held soon.

He noted that FACE is poised to help the science students with a solid foundation in Chemistry across the six regions of the country, by developing and organising more practical activities to spur their interest.

He thanked Banjul Breweries, Gambega Gambia Ltd, Muti-Trade, Chellarams, Junetta and His Royal Highness, and the CEO Abolly Ventures International for supporting the event.

Lamin Kujabi, a representative of the permanent secretary MoBSE, in his remarks, highlighted the importance his ministry attaches to science education.

He added that scholarships exist at the ministry and overseas for students who major in science, and stressed the pivotal importance of science to a holistic socio-economic and sustainable development.

 He, therefore, encouraged students to avail themselves of the vast opportunities being offered to them.

FACE is a youth-oriented, charitable and non-governmental organisation in Chemistry education formed in February 2008 and registered in March 2013, to complement the government’s efforts and other stakeholders in their work to achieve a brighter future for the Gambia’s teeming youth population.