Prof Gomez said the momentous occasion was to celebrate the combination of hard work, dedication and relentless pursuit of knowledge.
"I extend my warmest congratulations to each graduate. Your achievement, resilience and commitment to learning are not just personal raunchy but significant milestones in our nation’s journey," he said.
"Your academic success today signifies a promise of a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow for our beloved country," he added.
"Academia is showing the way we can have integration through education. However, we must acknowledge the wings of change sweeping across our educational institutions," he also said.
He pointed out that the transformation of MDI into a degree awarding institution is not a distant aspiration but an eminent reality, adding that the shift will allow MDI to tailor its offerings to meet the unique needs and aspiration of the civil service extension of the nation.
"The Gambia is at a critical point in its journey towards social, economic development and a robust world class civil service is essential to propel us forward. We envision an MDI that impact knowledge and nurture critical thinking leadership skills and a deep sense of public service as we embark on this transformational journey. Let us remember that education is about acquiring knowledge and harnessing it to effective change in our society," he stated.
He urged graduates to always strive for excellence, remain humble, open minded and willing to learn from every experience but also embrace failure not as a setback, but as an opportunity for growth.
Minister Gomez described education as what will remain when everything is no more. He thus urged graduates to be focused with a high sense of patriotism but also be mindful of the responsibilities that come with their education.
"Strive for excellence, seek opportunities to serve and never stop learning, remain an eternal student even when you go and get your PhDs."
