The training was aimed at equipping the interns with requisite skills and knowledge ahead of their deployment.
In his closing statement, Prof Faqir Muhammad Anjun, vice chancellor of the UTG said the university is committed to bringing more initiatives that are productive to the students, noting that since the establishment of the UTG, this is the first time government and development partners are introducing such projects for students.
“After today our students would be deployed to various councils in The Gambia for the implementation of the programme,” he said
Prof Anjun thus advised students to deliver as expected in their respective councils, while thanking UNDP for funding the UTG on this project.
David Gomez, director of Decentralization at the Ministry of Lands and Local Government, described the project as the first in the history of the UTG.
He expressed gratitude to UTG’s management for the smooth implementation of the project and reminded students that they are going to serve as ambassadors of the UTG.
“A lot is expected from you from the council, the Local Government Ministry, from UNDP, and from the UTG. We look forward to changing the modus operandi that you may come across in your respective councils,” he said.
Fatou Kinneh Kantara, head of Career and Wellness Center said: “I am very happy about the performance of the students. I am really proud of you guys.”
Madam Kantara, also a resource person at the training, expressed optimism that the interns will perform as expected at the respective councils.
She urged them to maintain the good image of the UTG in their course of work.
Mbakeh Camara, director of UTG relations said a test and research has shown that all the interns are committed and passionate to contributing to national development.
He commended the vice chancellor for demonstrating a high sense of commitment to supporting the students’ experience.
Camara further urged the students’ union heads to continue challenging the UTG’s management to ensure they (management) deliver responsibly.
Assistant professor Momodou Mustapha Fanneh, chairman of the UTG internship commission also expressed hope that the UTG students will make a positive impact at their respective councils.
“My take is that you are going to make a positive impression when you get there,” he said.
