The
Gambia Telecommunication and Multimedia Institution (GTMI) recently launched
its first student union to look at the welfare of the students as well as to
contribute to national development.
The
initiative was proudly sponsored by their partners GAMTEL/GAMCEL.
Speaking
on the occasion, the director of GTMI, Malick Bah, said this was a historic
moment of the institution as students union around the globe have a primary
role in complementing the efforts of their institutions.
“GTMI
has always endeavoured to put the interest of their students first,” he said.
He added that it was the administration that supported the setting up of the
union.
“Any
nation will excel when the youth are empowered in investing in the future. This
empowerment will help students nurture the habit of contributing in debates,
drama and poems to develop their talents that will help them in their future
careers.”
Bora
Ceesay, on behalf of the union president, said the union stands for
enlightenment, development and empowerment.
He said guarding the development of an
institution of excellence was the idea behind the formation of the union.
He stated that their foremost objective is to
promote academic excellence through debate, drama and poetry among students as
well as enlightening its members on the effect of illegal migration, drug abuse
and terrorism.
They
will be also conducting academic research programmes, field trips and tours,
helping students connect with the right employers, job opportunities and
entrepreneurship.
They
are aware of the challenges that lie ahead in achieving heir objectives but
with the dedication and commitment of their members, as well as the support and
partnership with the government, national youth council, Gamcel/Gamtel and management
of GTMI, the institution will gradually achieve their goals, he said.
He
commended the sponsors GAMTEL and GAMCEL for their contribution in the
development of young people in The Gambia.
Mr
Ceesay, representing Gamtel, said GTMI is the pioneer of telecommunications in
The Gambia and has created a household name in the domain.
The
formation of the union proves that students have a vision to contribute towards
development in creating the opportunity for its members and be an inspiration
for their Alma-mater.
He advised the union members to take their
work seriously, adding that the management of Gamtel/Gamcel would host a
website for the union to network and achieve their endeavours
Malick Jones, the deputy permanent secretary
at the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology advised the
students to make good use of their talent to help themselves in their future
career.
He
commented Gamtel/Gamcel for give the students the platform to showcase their
talent.
