President Barrow, the Ministers of Higher Education and of Finance, and World Bank Representative are all set to render massive support to young people and TVET centres.
The Skills, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SIE) Fund amounted to over 396 million Dalasis, implemented by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, will provide financial support to TVET centres to cover tuition, equipment, stipend and other essentials.
Up to1,087 students across twenty-five public and private training institutions would benefit from the second window phase of the project.
The Skills, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SIE) Fund Training Grants was officially awarded by President Barrow to 25 public and private Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across the country.
The Fund is expected to benefit 1,087 students who are pursuing TVET courses in priority fields aligned with the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan (RF-NDP 2023–2027).
Additionally, the initiative is part of the World Bank Resilience, Inclusion, Skills and Equity (RISE) Project, in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST) and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs (MoFEA).
The main objective of the SIE Fund is to enhance access to technical, innovative and entrepreneurial skills for Gambian youth while improving the relevance and quality of TVET education in the country.
The significant event was moderated by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Jainaba Jagne.
During the award ceremony, President Adama Barrow, Higher Education Minister Professor Pierre Gomez, Finance Minister Seedy Keita, Youth and Sports Minister Bakary Y Badjie and World Bank Resident Representative Franklin Mutahakana honoured the recipients of these grants and witnessed the exciting programme setting the future of innovation and entrepreneurship in The Gambia.
Meanwhile, the National Youth Council (NYC) has successfully held its first council meeting of the 2025. The meeting focused on key issues to shaping youth development in The Gambia.
The NYC reviewed minutes and matters arising during their previous meeting. They evaluated 2024 National Youth Conference and Festival (NAYCONF) Report, work plan and budget.
The NYC also discussed Planning for Regional Youth Congresses.
They discussed a strong foundation for the year ahead, ensuring effective planning and implementation of youth programmes.
Being the driving force of the country’s future, Gambian youth will continue to strive for progress, innovation and national development.
Source: National Youth Council
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