The event was organised to discuss the way forward in depth as far as higher education in The Gambia is concerned and to bolster greater access by Gambian youths by discussing sustainable ways for higher education financing mechanisms and strategies for adoption.
The engagement was graced by nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) in the education sector, academics, representatives of higher education institutions, MoHERST staffs, members of parliament and other top government functionaries.
Giving his opening remarks, Mod A.K. Secka, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs (MoFEA), said: “I am deeply honoured to say few words in this particular meeting.”
“The financing for higher education has been side-lined for some time and there are so many things in this sector that needs to be done if we want to positively influence development in this country.”
He noted that the occasion is timely and particularly important, assuring that they would support at all costs to ensure the aims of the MoHERST are achieved.
Madam Henrietta Sonko, country coordinator of MRC Holland, disclosed that the MRC Holland Foundation is now getting more involved in higher education than before because they used to give more focus to basic and secondary education.
She assured their interest to cooperate and partner to improve higher education in this country, especially TVET, adding greater focus would also be given to rural areas in The Gambia to ensure equal development.
Dr. Yusupha Touray, permanent secretary at MoHERST, thanked all attendees for gracing the occasion.
“I would seize this opportunity to thank those members who were at the ministry, who started the journey with us. They continue to stay with us along the way and we will get there together,” he said.
