“These reforms were not isolated actions. They were guided by a coherent national vision – to build a modern, responsive, and diversified higher education system that directly underpins national development,” Prof. Gomez said at the launch ceremony.
Prof. Gomez credits President Adama Barrow for the transformation of these institutions, stating that the transformation of higher education has rightly been elevated to a national priority under his leadership.
Prof. Gomez said this reflects a clear understanding that no nation can achieve sustainable development without investing in knowledge, skills, and institutional capacity.
“To ensure that these reforms were executed with rigour and strategic clarity, the Ministry established a dedicated Transformation Committee to guide the process and provide technical oversight. The progress we celebrate today is a testament to their diligence, professionalism, and unwavering commitment,” he said.
Prof. Gomez told the gathering that the Civil Service University occupies a uniquely strategic position within their national development architecture. He said a capable, professional, and ethical public service is the engine of government. He further stated that it is the mechanism through which policies are translated into tangible outcomes and services delivered to our people.
Prof. Gomez believes that without a competent public service, even the well-crafted policies will falter. He said CSU is not merely another academic institution but a national instrument for reform, efficiency, and accountability.
“I am particularly encouraged by the introduction of programmes that directly respond to the evolving needs of the public service, including the revival of specialised training for senior officials. This is precisely the level of alignment we expect between higher education and national priorities,” he said.
Prof. Gomez asserted that the country must expand access, enhance quality, promote research and innovation, and ensure that the country’s institutions remain responsive to the needs of the economy and society.
“Our universities must go beyond producing graduates. They must produce critical thinkers, problem-solvers, innovators, and ethical leaders,” he stated.
Chairman of the Governing Council, Civil Service University (CSU) – Dr. Burama L.J. Jammeh said they are committed to ensuring that CSU operates with the highest standards of integrity, transparency and excellence. He said their vision is to position CSU as a centre of excellence not only in The Gambia but across the West African sub-region.
Dr. Jammeh said they have also established fully functional Council subcommittees, covering Human Resources, Finance and Audit, Academic and Programmes, and Resource Mobilisation; bringing together expertise to support effective governance.
“Through our Finance and Audit Subcommittee, we have introduced programme-based budgeting which is an innovation that promotes accountability and clarity. Today, every department understands its financial responsibilities and targets,” he said.
Dr. Jammeh further informed the gathering that they have approved a modern organisational structure and staffing framework. He said CSU now operates through four specialised schools: School of ICT and Digital Governance: School of Public Administration and Governance: School of Business and Professional Studies: and School of Public Service.
“Each school has clearly defined mandates, programmes and staffing structures. We are now aligning staff competencies with institutional needs while planning for future capacity development,” he said.
In a related development, Mrs. Fatou Barry, Deputy Provost, said the Civil Service University will be offering Professional Degrees and not Academic Degrees. She said the emphasis is on Professional Skill Development.
“Our Curriculum development and teaching methods will continue to focus on professional skills development. Our main focus will be for our graduates to be well trained, hands and deck and ready to apply skills once they enter the workforce. This is what MDI has been known for and the CSU will continue this trend,” she added.
