The Student Loan Scheme Bill 2025 aims to improve access to tertiary and higher education in The Gambia by addressing financial barriers.
This was previously presented by The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (MoHERST) urging the National Assembly to consider this bill to promote inclusivity and financial sustainability in education.
In presenting the bill, the minister for Higher Education, Hon. Pierre Gomez, stated that the existing scholarship system is strained due to increasing enrolment and rising costs, leaving many deserving students without support.
He added that similar schemes in Ghana and Nigeria have successfully expanded access through revolving funds. “The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) and AU Agenda 2063.”
Chair of the Joint Committee, Hon Alhagie Mbowe, while laying the report stated, that the Joint Committee relied on the testimonies of witnesses to review the details of the whole bill [clause by clause], taking due cognisance of any input aimed at adding value to the content of the bill. “Cross references were made to ensure that the content of the bill conforms with the 1997 Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia and other relevant laws of the country.”
The committee recommended that adequate guarantee should be considered before granting the loans.
They also recommended that provisions need to be made for possible instances of illness and or death.
