Teachers are also grappling with underpaid and delayed disbursement of school subventions, and inadequate teaching and learning materials due mainly to minimal education budget from Central Government.Thus, the sector is experiencing shortage of teachers in critical areas, which is hampering the delivery of quality education to students.
Mr President, the provision of free education for basic and secondary schools, as stipulated in the 1997 Constitution of The Gambia, remains a critical yet unfulfilled mandate. To revitalise the education system, it is imperative to motivate teachers, promote sports competitions in schools, and implement reforms to enhance the quality of education. It is appalling, to say the least, that in a Sector of more than two thousand active educationalists, not to mention the tonnes of seasoned personnel outside and within the country. Another critical issue is the fact that the current Permanent Secretary has been bearing the burden of providing the necessary controls and leadership in the sector since the resignation of former Minister Dr Haddijatou Sey in July 2024; the Government is yet to appoint a new minister to steer the affairs of the ministry and sector.
Mr President, it seems the magnitude of the challenges teachers and the Education Sector at large face has not been fully pictured or realised by Government. It should be noted that teachers in The Gambia encounter various challenges that impede their effectiveness in the classroom. These hurdles include inadequate training and professional development opportunities, limited resources and infrastructure, large class sizes, low salaries, and challenging working conditions.
Furthermore, the lack of resources from Government exacerbates these challenges, leading to officer and teacher burnout and demotivation. Officers do not have the basic tools and resources, such as fuel to even monitor teaching and learning in schools. As if this is not enough, the necessary inputs such as textbooks could not be supplied to senior secondary schools for the whole of last academic year and for over five years for the lower and upper basic levels.
Mr President, to address these challenges, it is essential to motivate and support teachers and education officers. This can be achieved through offering competitive salaries, providing continuous professional development opportunities, improving working conditions, and recognising and rewarding outstanding teaching performance. By valuing and investing in teachers, the education system in The Gambia can attract and retain skilled educators who are capable of fostering a learning environment conducivefor students.
Mr President, the provision of free basic and secondary education in The Gambia is a fundamental right enshrined in the 1997 Constitution. However, the implementation of this policy has faced numerous hurdles, including budgetary constraints and inadequate infrastructure. By prioritising education funding and strengthening the public education system, the government can ensure that all children have access to quality education without financial barriers.
Incorporating sports competitions in schools is also essential for holistic student development. By encouraging physical activity and fostering teamwork, sports competitions enhance students' physical health, social skills, and sense of camaraderie. Moreover, sports events provide a platform for students to showcase their talents and instill a sense of pride in their school community. Offering prizes and incentives for participation can further motivate students to engage actively in sports activities, promoting overall well-being and academic success.
Finally Mr President, to improve education in The Gambia, a multifaceted approach is required. This will include investing in teacher development, improving school infrastructure and updating the curriculum to align with current needs. By prioritising education as a national development agenda, The Gambia can empower its citizens with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the ever-evolving global landscape.
In conclusion, the appointment of a Minister for Basic and Secondary Education in The Gambia is crucial for numerous reasons. These include addressing the challenges facing teachers and education officers, promoting free education, motivating educators, and enhancing the overall quality of the education system. And by prioritising education funding in the 2025 Budget, supporting teachers and implementing comprehensive reforms, The Gambia can ensure that every child has access to quality education and opportunities for a bright future.
Good Day!