“The benefits of education are boundless, and you, the architects of Gambia’s future, hold the key to unlocking our potential,” he said. “Let your bright ambitions radiate, illuminating the world around us.” His words resonated with the graduates, who see their degrees as a gateway to addressing The Gambia’s socio-economic challenges.”
“Together, we are here to celebrate the achievements of the 2024 class and the enduring legacy of The University of The Gambia. That is not all! We are here to honour academic excellence, while promoting reflection on the transformative initiatives reshaping our nation’s educational landscape. This landscape empowers our youth with citizenship skills, employability skills, and entrepreneurial skills.”
“As Head of State and Chancellor, I express deep gratitude to all of you for your unwavering commitment to the nation. Extendedly, this includes the personnel and associates of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology.”
He highlighted that the theme chosen for this year’s convocation resonates deeply with the national development agenda.
“Globally, youth unemployment remains a pressing challenge. In 2024, for instance, twenty-five percent (25%) of young unemployed persons were reported to have been part of the driving force behind irregular migration, with their potential untapped for productive engagement.”
“In The Gambia, we are now reversing the trend effectively. Through the Recovery-focused National Development Plan -YIRIWA (2023-2027) and The Gambia TVET Policy (2021–2030), we are gradually bridging the gap between education and employment,” he noted.
He underscored that the government is ensuring that graduates are not dependent job seekers but productive, dependable, and independent job creators. “To facilitate and sustain this, my government will remain actively committed to expanding access to quality education and skills training across the country.”
He congratulated the graduating class and their parents, families, and well-wishers on the successes registered; saying: “Hearty congratulations to all of you.”
Professor Herbert Robbonsin, UTG’s Vice Chancellor, echoed the President’s sentiments, highlighting the university’s dedication to academic excellence and workforce readiness. “We gather here to celebrate academic excellence while empowering our nation’s youth for enhanced employability,” he stated.
