Furthering his studies at the University of The Gambia and doubling as the assistant secretary general of the Young Writers Association of The Gambia (YWAG), Alpha's ambition for greatness knows no limits.
In an exclusive interview, Alpha talked about his essay, saying that the essay he submitted is concerned with the education system in The Gambia and highlights majors issues, such as quality education, particularly in the province, and lack of standard facilities compared to other part of the world.
"The rationale behind this essay that education is key to the success of any nation; the success of any nation depends on the type of education they offer the young people in that country. I understand that we have lots of knots in the education system. That's why I anchored my essay on education," he averred.
The young author expressed a firm believe in his literary dexterity and prowess, expressing that every individual has the potential to realised what he or she wants to do.
He quoted the saying, "Use what you have to get what you want," saying this is what he did to set himself apart.
Speaking over how he felt over the recent attainment, he said: "I feel very happy to become the first Gambian to participate in such competition and win. This achievement is not for me only but for the entire Gambia at large. It has uplifted Gambian literature to the highest height."
Meanwhile, his journey has not been a bed of roses. As many determined young Gambians who aspire to greatness and leave a mark for the nation and the world to behold, Alpha hails from an underprivileged background, which makes his journey nothing short of massive hurdles and hindrances.
While describing this international feat as a great opportunity, he expressed: "I came from a very humble background. So such opportunity will help me to uplift my family and my community.
As one of the winners of the Immerse Education Essay competition, he has earned a partial scholarship to study certain programmes at either Cambridge or Oxford University. However, he could not cover the partial expenses and thus failed to attend.
But, considering the lesson he has learnt, even if little, he has an admonition for fellow young writers and those who aspire to become one.
"Let them be committed," he said, "and consistent in what they do. Let them be original and do away with artificial intelligence (AI) tools.
"The more they read, the more they could write. Separating writing from reading is like separating whiteness from milk, which is impossible."
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