In its effort to effectively implement project activities within The Gambia and beyond, Nova Scotia-Gambia Association (NSGA) has recently appointed Mr. Njakassi Jarju as Country Director.
Mr. Jarju, who is well-grounded in education development, economies and management science, holds a Master degree in Science (economies), Development Policy and Planning from the University of Wales, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education, with majors in Economies from the University of Sierra Leone, an International Diploma in Educational Planning and Management from UNESCO, International Institute for Educational Planning (IIEP) in Paris (France), a Higher Teacher Certificate (secondary) in economies and history from the Milton Margai Teachers College in Sierra Leone and a Primary Teacher Certificate from The Gambia College, as well as variety of other certificates.
Mr. Jarju first worked as a classroom teacher at primary school level, then to secondary school level, and latter moved to education management at the Ministry of Education Planning Unit, where he climbed the ladder to become the Director of Educational Planning, Policy Analysis, Budgeting and Research for the government.
In 2004, Mr. Jarju moved over to Project Management at NGO level, first as Co-ordinator of the Common Wealth Education Fund (CEF) The Gambia programme, domiciled in ActionAid The Gambia.
At the end of the CEF project, he was tasked with the responsibility of managing the governance theme of the Action Aid The Gambia country programme. He also served as Project Co-ordinator for the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF)-
Mr. Jarju has in-dept knowledge in a wide range of developmental issues and policies.
Confirming his appointment, Mr. Jarju said he has accepted the challenges ahead of him, as the first Gambian to head such a position.
"I am quite aware of the fact that being the first Gambian to head such a position is really challenging, but not withstanding I will do my level best to face the challenges," he said.
Mr. Jarju further went on to say that Nova Scotia-Gambia Association has over the years been a household name in The Gambia, but of late NSGA seems to be losing that position.
"I wish to revitalise those glorified moments through an effective workforce collaboration with the staff, partners and shareholders in the development work," he said.
He emphasised the need to extend collaboration with other partner NGOs in The Gambia and beyond to forge an enabling working environment, geared towards youth empowerment and community development.
"I look forward to effectively serve the people of this country, particularly the youths and women in the development process," Jarju concluded.
