Bank PHB, one of the leading financial institutions in The Gambia, Tuesday presented a cheque for D200, 000 to the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, as part of its corporate social responsibility.
The gesture, known as the Educational Scholarship of Bank PHB, formed part of their contribution to the promotion of education in the country.
According to officials of the bank, Bank PHB seeks to actively engage young people in the country to harness their potentials.
The bank has resolved to focus on the pro-active orientation of Gambian youths, who serve as the pivotal force for socio-economic change in the country.
The scheme, which has benefited some youths already, started way back on 11 April 2010.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Hon. Fatou Lamin Faye, hailed the efforts of the bank in youth development and education, two crucial sectors of the country's socio-economic development.
"This not the first time you have partnered with government in fulfillment of your corporate social responsibilities," she noted. "This is what we expect from the private sector, since the government alone cannot do it all."
She also called on other banks to emulate Bank PHB describing their gesture as "humanitarian".
"You are investing in people that will one day serve your bank or become clients to your bank. I encourage you to do more for the education sector and other sectors as well," she said, commending them for joining the crusade for the attainment of quality education in The Gambia and urging them to keep the good work.
For his part, Chidi Ogbolu, Head of Country Operation who led a team of Bank officials, said they are happy to be associated with such a "noble course".
He noted that the bank started the initiative early this year by supporting students at the
"Our support will continue and will focus on youth empowerment and education since the youths are the cream of any society," Mr Ogbolu said.
He added: "The bank is here to stay and we intend to work with partners at the Education Ministry."
