Speaking at the validation workshop organised by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST), Mr Aubee said the exercise represents more than the adoption of policy documents; it lays the foundation for a transparent, accountable and sustainable student loan programme that will benefit generations of Gambian students.
He noted that since the appointment of the Executive Director and the Board in 2025, significant progress has been made in establishing the institution. According to him, the Scheme has recruited its core staff, developed key operational policies and established governance systems that will guide the effective implementation of the Students Revolving Loan Scheme.
"The Strategic Plan clearly outlines our vision, strategic priorities and accountability framework, while the Loan Policy provides guidance on eligibility, loan disbursement, repayment and recovery mechanisms," Mr Aubee stated. He urged students, higher learning institutions, financial institutions, employers and development partners to work together to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the initiative.
Mr Aubee explained that, SLRS is a Gambian institution that must reflect the realities of our country as a developing economy, true its mandate the scheme has developed these documents to expand Access while protecting public finance. This is a difficult task that requires all stakeholders to work together in designing and implementing the plans and rules in the documents.
Mr Aubee's leadership reflects his longstanding commitment to advancing higher education in The Gambia. Throughout his career at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, he played a significant role in strengthening institutional development and educational reforms. Beyond public service, he also contributed to academic excellence as a volunteer lecturer at the University of The Gambia (UTG), mentoring and supporting students while promoting quality higher education.
His appointment as Board Chair has further strengthened the governance and strategic direction of the Students Revolving Loan Scheme, providing the leadership needed to transform the initiative from policy into a functioning national institution.
Executive Director Samba Bah echoed these achievements, noting that within just 180 days, the Scheme had established a fully operational secretariat, recruited key personnel, developed comprehensive governance and procurement systems, and conducted nationwide stakeholder consultations that informed both the Strategic Plan and the Loan Policy.
Mr Bah further disclosed that the Scheme has secured an approved 2026 budget of D56.5 million, including a government commitment of D40 million, while management continues to mobilise additional resources to close the remaining funding gap before the full rollout of the programme.
Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Prof. Pierre Gomez, reaffirmed government's unwavering commitment to ensuring that no Gambian student is denied higher or tertiary education because of financial hardship. He described the Students Revolving Loan Scheme as one of the most important reforms introduced under President Adama Barrow's administration to improve equitable access to higher education.
The Minister commended Mr Aubee, the Board, management and staff for successfully developing the Scheme's foundational documents despite the absence of an existing national model, describing their achievement as a remarkable demonstration of innovation, dedication and commitment.
