The formal handing over ceremony was held at the Old Blocks of the University of The Gambia Faraba Campus. It brought together government officials, partners, consultants and contractors.
The occasion also witnessed slide presentations by officials of the company, Shapoorji Pallonji who are contracted for the construction of the project. In the presentation, the company highlighted on the master plan and designs which include housing components listing, descriptions, among others.
Speaking at the occasion, Hon Pierre Gomez, minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology said president Adama Barrow has bigger visions for the University of The Gambia.
Highlighting on the dormitories, he said their standards would be international, adding that the initiative by The Gambia government is to cater for the growing number of students gaining admission to the University as well as to ensure a conducive teaching and learning environment.
Professor Gomez stated that the money for the project is tax payers’ money and therefore they must ensure the project is sustainable and for the interest of the Gambian people.
He lamented that it is strategic to set the ball rolling for the dormitories which led to government’s decision to partner with MRC Holland Foundation and Brighter Future Foundation for the construction of the dormitories at zero cost to The Gambia government.
For her part, Dr. Henrietta Sonko of MRC Holland Foundation stated that they have a good partnership with the ministry of Higher Education, noting that they started with constructing dormitories at Armitage school.
She stated that the gesture is done at a non-profit basis to them, and therefore urged the students to take responsibility and contribute towards the sustainability of the facilities.
Yama Samateh-Lowe of the Brighter Future Foundation stated that the ongoing work at the Faraba Campus will ensure it represents a real University. She assured government through MoHERST of their continuous partnership.
