Bah said that the Adama Barrow-led government would prioritise Science and Technology, and made the statement as justification for that resolve. But the statement has left students questioning the depth of understanding within the government about the significance of their chosen field of study.
Minister Bah's remarks have not only been perceived as dismissive but also as downgrading to the social science community.
Abdoulie Nyassi, a political science student, reacting to Bah’s comment, suggested: "Maybe we might call him for a debate. The Student Union should help organise a debate with him,” highlighting the urgency to address and rectify the “misconceptions” surrounding the social science disciplines, especially political science.
"He Hamat Bah, in fact, insulted us. We demand a public apology from him," Nyassi said, reflecting a collective call for acknowledgment and redress.
Amidst the outcry, concerns about the broader state of affairs were raised. The young student remarked: "After all the prioritization of Science and Technology education, still our health care is worse than the poorest country in the world," questioning the effectiveness of the government's education policies.
The discontent was not limited to students alone. Citizens outside the academic sphere also weighed in on Minister Bah's statement. "Anyway, I wish to challenge this brainless minister," expressed one individual, reflecting a sentiment shared by many who see the minister's words as reflective of a lack of understanding.
Ansumana Colley, another student, questioned the Minister's track record, stating: "But what has the Tourism Minister done to make a difference in the lives of Gambians? Everyone in this country knows him, his schemes and his irrelevance in this country. This is just another rouse to get public attention."
One Jobe, a student, expressed a broader skepticism about the government's priorities, stating, "They don't have anything to tell to the citizens. That is the reason they are doing unnecessary talks."
