The ceremony, held at a local hotel near the Independence Stadium in Bakau, marked the beginning of a year-long national service program designed to build skills, instill patriotism, and prepare young Gambians for future leadership.
In his keynote address, the Honourable Minister for Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie, congratulated the graduates, describing the program as a milestone in their personal and professional journeys.
“Today we are gathered to celebrate the passing out of 100 young university graduates who will embark on a 12-month National Service program, either through the regular batch or the apprenticeship training program,” minister Badjie said.
He explained that the graduates would be deployed across government institutions and the private sector, where they will contribute to national development while gaining practical experience. He encouraged them to embrace perseverance, dedication, and humility throughout their service.
“As you go out to serve, always keep in mind that many young people wished for this opportunity but it is you who have earned it. I hope that in 12 months, when we meet again, we will reflect positively on the learning and contributions you have brought to your institutions,” he told the graduates.
Minister Badjie also reminded them of the government’s efforts to tackle youth unemployment, highlighting initiatives such as the National University Studies Program and the transformation of institutions like MDI and GTTI into universities. He thanked the University of The Gambia and UNDP for their partnership in making the NYSS program possible.
The Executive Director of NYSS, Mr. Mustapha Badjie, also addressed the gathering, describing the day as both a celebration and a call to service. He noted that the two-week orientation program had prepared the graduates not only with knowledge but with values of patriotism, discipline, and professionalism.
“This initiative is more than training; it is an investment in you as young Gambians. You are expected to serve as ambassadors of the NYSS, ready to contribute meaningfully to nation-building,” he said.
Mr. Badjie cited the success of the first cohort, many of whom secured permanent employment after their service year, as evidence that the scheme creates sustainable career pathways. He urged the graduates to approach their placements with integrity and commitment.
The NYSS Director further expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Youth and Sports for its visionary leadership and to UNDP for its technical and financial support.
“To the new corps members, your country believes in you, your community trusts you, and your families are proud of you. Now it is your turn to rise to the challenge, to prove yourselves as worthy ambassadors of the NYSS, and to play your part in building the Gambia we all dream of,” he concluded.
